International Overdose Awareness Day
A Moment of Silence for Those Who Fight Addiction
Each year we lose thousands of people from drug overdose globally. Some survive but suffer a permanent injury, with devastating impact to their families and friends.
International Overdose Awareness Day will take place on Monday, August 31st. It provides an opportunity for us to reflect on practical ways to prevent overdose in our community. Overdose is preventable. Knowing the real facts about drugs and what to do when you see someone experiencing an overdose does save lives.
The Community Overdose Action Team is encouraging Dayton and Montgomery County residents to pause for a moment of silence at 12:00 pm on Monday, August 31, to remember those who have lost their lives to drug overdose and addiction.
“We have seen a steady increase of overdoses during the current COVID-19 pandemic but there is hope,” said Jeff Cooper Montgomery County Health Commissioner. “With the support and encouragement of family members, loved ones and members of the community, those who face addiction can find the help they need.”
“Addiction recovery is a process that continues for a lifetime. Treatment works and people recover. It is important for everyone to know that. No one has to be alone in their fight for recovery. It is important to reach out for help, which is available in many various ways to gain support and guidance in their journey,” said ADAMHS Executive Director Helen Jones-Kelley.
To recognize the day, Montgomery County and the City of Dayton will both be issuing proclamations. And that evening, the Montgomery County Administration Building and the City of Dayton’s I-75, Monument, Fifth St, Stewart St. and Webster St. bridges will be illuminated in purple. If someone is experiencing stress or anxiety they can call the Miami Valley Warmline at (937) 528-7777, Monday to Friday, 11:00 am to 7:00 pm, for free and confidential mental and behavioral health peer support services. For access to immediate help 24/7, the public can call Samaritan Behavioral Health Crisis Care at (937) 224-4646 for linkage to treatment and care options. Another resource that is available is the GetHelpNow Montgomery County app that provides information about mental health and addiction services in Montgomery County.
The Community Overdose Action Team reminds you that any illegal drug could contain fentanyl which increases the chance for an overdose. While there is no safe way to use illegal drugs, it is important that drugs users, their friends and family, and the public are aware of steps they can take to help reduce the risk of death.
The Community Overdose Action Team was established to address the opioid/heroin epidemic in Montgomery County. The goal is to reduce the number of fatal overdoses. Montgomery County Alcohol, Drug Addiction & Mental Health Services and Public Health – Dayton & Montgomery County are lead agencies in the effort to combat the epidemic.