International Overdose Awareness Day: Highlighting Lifesaving Resources

The Mississippi Department of Mental Health (DMH) joins communities across the state and around the world in recognizing International Overdose Awareness Day on August 31, a global event that raises awareness of overdose, honors the lives lost and supports families and communities impacted. In addition, Governor Tate Reeves has declared August 31 as Overdose Awareness Day in Mississippi, further underscoring the importance of prevention, awareness and recovery.

 

Overdose is a public health crisis that affects thousands of Mississippians every year. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that nearly 108,000 people lost their lives to drug overdoses in 2022, most involving opioids like fentanyl — a reminder of the urgent need for awareness and prevention. Mississippi has not been immune to this crisis, as synthetic opioids continue to drive rising rates of fatal and nonfatal overdoses in state.

 

“Every life lost to overdose is one too many,” says Wendy Bailey, Executive Director of the Mississippi Department of Mental Health. “International Overdose Awareness Day gives us a chance to break down stigma, raise awareness, and remind Mississippians that hope, recovery and support are available.”

 

DMH encourages all Mississippians to recognize the warning signs of overdose and understand the lifesaving role of naloxone, a medication that can reverse opioid overdoses. Through initiatives like Stand Up, Mississippi… DMH and its partners are expanding access to naloxone, offering education and prevention resources and connecting individuals and families with treatment and recovery services. As part of these efforts, a free naloxone vending machine has been placed in the Jackson Medical Mall, providing 24/7 access and ensuring help is available when it is needed most.

 

“Stigma is one of the greatest barriers to people receiving the help they need,” expresses Bailey. “This day reminds us that people struggling with substance use deserve compassion, understanding and access to care – not judgment.”

 

Mississippians are encouraged to support friends, family and neighbors who may be struggling with substance use by listening without judgment, sharing resources and connecting loved ones to treatment and recovery services. Learning to recognize the signs of an overdose and how to use naloxone can save lives, and individuals are encouraged to participate in local awareness events, advocacy campaigns or volunteer opportunities. DMH urges anyone seeking help for themselves or a loved one to visit www.standupms.org or call the DMH Helpline at 1-877-210-8513 for services and support in regards to alcohol or drug addiction.

 

As we recognize International Overdose Awareness Day, DMH honors the lost lives, the families forever changed and the survivors who remind us that recovery is possible.