Back to SearchKingston - Every year on August 31, International Overdose Awareness Day—the world’s largest annual campaign to end drug overdose takes place to remember without stigma those who have died and to acknowledge the grief of families and friends left behind.
For the past 20 years, the campaign raises awareness of overdose, which is one of the world’s worst public health crises and stimulates action and discussion about evidence-based overdose prevention and drug policy.
High rates of opioid-related deaths continue to be reported in our region, including 42 deaths due to accidental overdose poisonings in 2020, which was an increase from 32 deaths in 2019. It is anticipated that these trends have continued throughout 2021. It is important to remember that these data points do not tell the whole story—community members lost to accidental drug poisoning are family members, friends, colleagues, and loved ones.
Locally, Mayor Brian Patterson proclaimed August 31 as International Overdose Awareness Day in Kingston, Ontario. Several local agencies will host events to provide more information on overdose prevention and honor those who have lost their lives from drug poisoning. Along with Kingston City Hall, HARS Integrated Care Hub (661 Montreal Street) will light their buildings in purple to recognize this day. For more event details, visit HARS Integrated Care Hub Facebook and Addictions & Mental Health Services.
The hashtag #EndOverdose and #IOAD2021 are being used on social media to support International Overdose Awareness Day. If you would like to get involved in International Overdose Awareness Day here is a list of ways:
- Light a candle to remember loved ones who have passed away to overdose.
- Wear a purple ribbon to raise awareness and foster dialogue.
- Recognize buildings lit up in purple and flags at half mast.
- Join the online conversation and share social media posts from local service providers such as Street Health Centre, the HARS Integrated Care Hub, Addictions & Mental Health Services KFLA, KFL&A Public Health and many more.
- Encourage your friends, family, colleagues and loved ones to learn more about substance use and to challenge the stigma associated with substance use. Engaging in dialogue is one way we can create change in our community.
To learn more about International Overdose Awareness Day, visit overdoseday.com or KFL&A Public Health. To information on overdose response and naloxone, visit kflph.ca/Naloxone.
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