International Overdose Awareness Day August 31

International Overdose Awareness Day on August 31 is a stark reminder of the harm that drugs inflict on our society. It is a day to remember those who have fallen victims to overdose as well as those who have come out of the dark hole victorious with the help of loved ones and ask whether the War on Drugs has been effective. International Overdose Awareness Day aims to reduce the stigma attached to the issue, most of which is faced by the families of the victims. Many who are not aware of the factors behind overdose unfairly blame victims. Such an attitude only works to flair the negativities surrounding the topic, suppressing any efforts to raise awareness. August 31 is the day to come out and stand in solidarity in order to reduce future overdose deaths.

More than 5 people die every day from opioid overdoses in Arizona.

Prescription opioids and illegal opioids like counterfeit pills with fentanyl are addictive and can be deadly. More than five people die every day from opioid overdoses in Arizona. In 2017, a statewide public health emergency was issued in an effort to reduce opioid deaths. Help is available, call 1-888-688-4222.