International Overdose Awareness Day: What it is and Why it Matters

Every year on August 31st, people around the world observe International Overdose Awareness Day, a campaign originally launched in Australia in 2001 and now observed globally. It’s a day to remember those lost to overdose and support those grieving, to break down stigma surrounding use and overdose, raise awareness about life-saving tools like naloxone (Narcan), and to encourage compassionate and community-wide approaches to prevention.  

Overdose doesn’t only affect young people-it also impacts older adults who may be prescribed medications, are using substances recreationally for non-medical purposes, and/or in isolation. In Erie County, adults aged 50 and older accounted for half of overdose deaths in 2024.  

An overdose occurs when a toxic amount of a drug, or a combination of drugs overwhelms the body. All drugs can cause an overdose, including medication prescribed by a doctor. It is important to know the right amount and the right time to take your medication. It is also vital to know how your medications or other substances interact with alcohol, cannabis, tobacco and other drugs.  

Knowing the signs of overdose and how to respond can save a life. There are several signs and symptoms of overdose, and these differ with the type of drug used.  

• Opioids, depressants, and sedatives all slow the central nervous system to produce a calming effect. These substances are often prescribed to relieve pain or aid sleep, but are also sometimes used for non-medical purposes, commonly referred to as “recreationally” or “recreational use”. When taken in excessive amounts or in combination, they can depress normal functions, such as breathing and heart rate, until these eventually stop-resulting in death.  

• Stimulants do the opposite and increase alertness and heart rate. An overdose on stimulants may result in overheating, heart attack, stroke, seizure, or a drug-induced psychotic episode.  

Harm reduction is a compassionate, evidence-based approach that focuses on minimizing the negative consequences of drug use rather than solely trying to eliminate it. It meets people where they are—recognizing that not everyone is ready or able to stop using substances—and provides practical tools like naloxone (Narcan), fentanyl test strips, and safe use education to prevent overdose and save lives. For individuals, especially older adults who may be managing multiple medications or living alone, harm reduction can be the difference between life and death, offering dignity, safety, and support without judgment. 

Examples of Harm Reduction 

• Naloxone (Narcan) Distribution 

  • A medication that reverses opioid overdoses. Available without a prescription through Erie County, simply text (716) 858-7695 to receive a supply for free.  

• Test Strips 

  • Small, easy-to-use strips that detect the presence of fentanyl, or other highly potent substances, in drugs before use. Also available through Erie County, simply text (716) 858-7695.

• Safe Use Education 

  • Teaching people how to reduce risks when using drugs (e.g., not using alone, using a small test dose first, or having someone nearby with Narcan). 

• Syringe Exchange Programs (SEPs) 

  • Provide clean needles to reduce the spread of infections like HIV and hepatitis C. 

• Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) 

  • Combines medications like methadone, buprenorphine, or naltrexone with counseling to treat opioid use disorder safely. 

• Safe Medication Storage and Disposal 

  • Prevents misuse by keeping medications secure and disposing of unused prescriptions safely. 

• Peer Support & Recovery Coaching

  • Offers nonjudgmental support from people with lived experience in substance use or recovery. 

• "Never Use Alone" Hotlines or Apps 

  • Services that stay on the phone with a person while they use substances to call for help if needed. The Never Use Alone Hotline can be reached at 877-696-1996 and is confidential.  

For more information on Harm Reduction Tools, please visit Harm Reduction & Substance Use | Erie County Dept of Health. 

The Substance Use Awareness and Advocacy for Older Adults Program (SUAAOA) is here to help. Our team brings a compassionate, judgement-free approach to every interaction, with a goal of connecting individuals to the community organizations or support they may need.