- This event has passed.
Aug 31 '17
An event every year that begins at 12:00 AM on of August, repeating indefinitely
Aim and purpose
International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD) is a global event held on August 31st each year and aims to raise awareness of overdose and reduce the stigma of a drug-related death.
International Overdose Awareness Day aims to raise awareness that the tragedy of overdose death is preventable.
It also acknowledges the grief felt by families and friends remembering those who have met with death or permanent injury as a result of drug overdose.
Raising awareness, wear silver
IOAD spreads the message that the tragedy of overdose death is preventable.
Wear Silver to show your support.
Overdoes facts
It is estimated that globally there were 187,100 (range: 98,300 – 231,400) drug-related deaths (mostly overdoses) in 2013 with opioid overdose the largest category.
The United States is in the midst of a drug overdose epidemic. More people died from drug overdoses in 2014 than in any other year on record. Deaths from drug overdose are up among both men and women, all races, and adults of nearly all ages.
Resources
View the campaign materials below and share the message with friends, family, colleagues and your community to help prevent overdose.
Please ensure that posters are displayed thoughtfully and responsibly so as not to be in breach of local by-laws.
- What to do in the case of alcohol intoxication: fact sheet (pdf)
- What to do in case of an opioid overdose: fact sheet (pdf)
