August 31st is International Overdose Awareness Day, a global event held on the 31st day of August every year to raise awareness of overdoses, and reduce the stigma associated with addiction, overdoses, and overdose fatalities.

 

International Overdose Awareness Day originated in Melbourne, Australia in 2001 and has grown over the last almost two decades into a global campaign, spreading the important message worldwide that the tragedy of overdose deaths due to drugs and alcohol is preventable. It is well-known that addiction doesn’t discriminate and that people from all walks of life are impacted by addiction, alcoholism, substance use disorder and mental health issues. Each year, thousands of citizens of the world are lost to fatal overdoses, and even more suffer non-fatal overdoses. International Overdose Awareness Day attempts to bring awareness to this growing issue, aiding people to recognize the signs and symptoms of an overdose, necessary precautions to take, the need and necessity of access to overdose-reversing medications like Naloxone and Narcan, break the stigma of addiction, and look at addiction as a chronic health issue rather than a moral failing or character flaw.

 

Last year around the world over 500 events were held recognizing International Overdose Awareness Day. The national site to gather more information is www.overdoseday.com.

 

In Maryland alone, over 10 events throughout the state and in different counties are planning activities for International Overdose Awareness Day on August 31, 2019. Events include candlelight vigils, evenings of observance, stories of hope, live music and activities, and recovery celebrations. To find more information in your local area, visit https://www.overdoseday.com/usa/us-md/.

 

If you or someone you know needs help for addiction or co-occurring disorder issues, please give us a call. Maryland Addiction Recovery Center offers the most comprehensive dual diagnosis addiction treatment in the Mid-Atlantic area. If we aren’t the best fit for you or your loved one, we will take the necessary time to work with you to find a treatment center or provider that better fits your needs. Please give us a call at (410) 773-0500 or email our team at info@marylandaddictionrecovery.com. For more information on all of our drug addiction, alcohol addiction and co-occurring disorder services and recovery resources, please visit our web site at www.marylandaddictionrecovery.com.

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