It’s a day to remember loved ones lost to a drug overdose and to think about those still struggling with addiction.
International Overdose Awareness Day is marked every Aug. 31.
Michelle Carter, public health nurse with Huron Perth Public Health, says its an important day to remember the impact, “locally, provincially, nationally and even internationally.”
“It is a time to grieve but also time to encourage action in our communities.”
There were 16 deaths in Huron Perth due to confirmed and probable opioid overdoses, up from 11 deaths in 2022.
Carter says the losses are not just community members but friends, family members, and loved ones.
Healthcare workers, including first responders, also feel the impact.
Carter says its important to remain supportive for people living with addiction. It can happen to anyone from any walk of life, at any age.
“We continue to work in our communities to try and prevent the deaths through awareness and advocate but we all need to be working at this together.”.
Carter says education about signs and symptoms of an overdose and carrying a naloxone kit if you know someone addicted to opioids, are good ways to help.
You should also stay and support someone and call 911 if you witness an overdose.
