International Overdose Awareness Day is Aug. 31

Itasca, IL — The National Safety Council is encouraging Americans to observe International Overdose Awareness Day, a time to remember those we have lost to drug overdoses.

Opioid-related deaths have skyrocketed in recent years. Of the 61,311 drug overdoses that occurred in 2017, more than 43,000 involved opioids, according to data from NSC.

“Opioid misuse touches one in every four Americans, and these deaths are completely preventable,” Lorraine M. Martin, president and CEO of NSC, said in an Aug. 19 press release. “International Overdose Awareness Day is an opportunity for those who have lost loved ones to remember and reflect. It is also a time to reduce stigma and prevent future deaths by supporting education and advocacy efforts.”

For ideas on ways you can make a difference on International Overdose Awareness Day, visit nsc.org/overdoseawarenessday.