August 31 is International Overdose Awareness day. The purpose of International Overdose Awareness Day is to:
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- Raise awareness of overdose and reduce the stigma of drug-related deaths.
- Provide an opportunity for people to publicly mourn loved ones in a safe environment, some for the first time without feeling guilt or shame.
- Give community members information about the issue of fatal and non-fatal overdose.
- Send a strong message to current and former people who use drugs that they are valued.
- Stimulate discussion about overdose prevention and drug policy.
- Provide basic information on the range of support services that are available.
- Prevent and reduce drug-related harm by supporting evidence-based policy and practice.
- Inform people around the world about the risk of overdose.
Use the hashtag #OverdoseAware or #EndOverdose on your photos and posts to help build momentum for the day and spread awareness.