Every year, August 31st is marked as International Overdose Awareness Day. As part of this event, we are raising awareness of overdose, honoring those who have passed due to overdose, and breaking the stigma surrounding substance abuse.
The Overdose Epidemic: A Silent Killer
The overdose death epidemic has reached epidemic proportions, claiming thousands of lives and destroying entire communities. This tragic trend has been exacerbated by the opioid crisis, in particular. A highly potent synthetic opioid called fentanyl has infiltrated the drug supply, causing accidental overdoses to become more prevalent.
Based on the CDC, there were 107,941 drug overdose deaths in 2022, which translates into 32.6 deaths per 100,000 standard population age-adjusted. Furthermore, synthetic opioids other than methadone rose by 4.1% between 2021 and 2022, compared to heroin, natural and semi-synthetic opioids, and methadone.
It is important to understand that addiction is not a sign of weakness, a character flaw, or a moral failing. Addiction is a chronic disease that changes both brain structure and function, currently affecting the lives of nearly 10% of adults in the United States. This is a common disease that affects millions of people from all walks of life, no matter their age, background, or socioeconomic status.
As such, people with substance abuse disorders deserve compassion, treatment, and support, not stigmatization.
Breaking the Stigma
As a result of the stigma surrounding substance abuse, addressing the overdose crisis has proven to be a challenge. By creating stigma, people avoid seeking help, isolate those affected, and hinder effective prevention efforts.
This can be countered by encouraging open and honest discussions about addiction. As a first step, we should recognize that addiction is not a sign of weakness or a moral failing. A chronic disease of the brain, addiction affects nearly 10% of adults in the United States. Addiction affects people from all walks of life, regardless of their age, background, or socioeconomic status, and changes both brain structure and function.
As such, people with substance abuse disorders deserve compassion, treatment, and support, not stigmatization. Education is therefore essential to dispelling myths and developing empathy. Understanding addiction science allows us to challenge stereotypes and make those with addictions more supportive of one another.
Remembering Those Lost
On International Overdose Awareness Day, we also remember those who have lost their lives to overdoses. In honoring their memory and supporting their loved ones, we can support them. To raise awareness and provide support, many communities hold memorial events, vigils, and overdose prevention workshops.
What You Can Do
To address the overdose crisis, everyone must play a role. You can get involved in a number of ways:
Educate yourself. You can learn about addiction, overdose prevention, and what resources are available. For example, USAGov has a list of emergency hotlines, counseling, and treatment options for help with substance abuse.
Spread awareness. Inform your friends, colleagues, and social media followers about overdose prevention and treatment. In addition, the International Overdose Awareness Day tribute page allows you to share a tribute to someone who has died from an overdose.Â
Challenge stigma. Promote understanding and speak out against negative stereotypes.
Support loved ones. Help those suffering from substance abuse disorders by offering support and encouragement.
Volunteer. Become involved with overdose prevention organizations in your area.
Advocate for change. Educate and encourage your elected officials to support evidence-based policies to address the overdose crisis.
Together, we can eliminate overdose as a leading cause of death. It is an important reminder that we still have a long way to go. International Overdose Awareness Day reminds us how much work still needs to be done. However, we can make a difference if we commit.
Hope and Healing
Despite the overdose crisis' daunting challenges, there is hope. Increasing access to treatment, developing effective prevention strategies, and taking a compassionate approach can make an enormous difference. As a team, we can create a world where overdose no longer results in a leading cause of death.
Remember:Â You are not alone. Whether you or someone you know is suffering from a substance use disorder, help is available. If you need help with addiction, contact your local healthcare provider, mental health professional, or addiction treatment center.
Resources:
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA): 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (NCADD): 1-800-NCA-CALL (622-2255)Â Â
National Drug Helpline: 1-844-289-0879
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