International Overdose Awareness Day, observed annually on August 31, is the world’s largest annual campaign to end overdose, remember those who have died, and acknowledge the grief of the family and friends left behind. It is a day to honestly look at the grief and suffering caused by overdose and to end the stigma facing those who struggle with substance use disorder and addiction so they can find the compassionate care they deserve.
The goals of this day are clear:
- Raise awareness about the global overdose crisis.
- Reduce stigma surrounding substance use and overdose deaths.
- Remember people who have died from an overdose and recognize the pain of their loved ones.
- Promote prevention strategies and increase access to evidence-based treatment.
An overdose can happen to anyone. While it often affects those who use drugs regularly, it also poses a significant risk to people with reduced tolerance, such as those who have recently completed a period of abstinence.
If you or someone you love is struggling with substance use, please know that professional help is available. You do not have to face this journey alone.
What Is International Overdose Awareness Day?
International Overdose Awareness Day was established to move the conversation beyond cold statistics. While data helps us understand the scale of the crisis, every number represents a human being—a person with a family, a story, and a community that cares for them.
A central pillar of Overdose Awareness Day is addressing the stigma that surrounds addiction. Addiction is a chronic health condition, not a moral failure. This shame often acts as a barrier, preventing people from seeking the help they need.
By talking openly about overdose, we can help people recognize the risks, reduce the fear of judgment, and ensure more people access life-saving resources.
Understanding the Overdose Crisis
An overdose occurs when a substance—or a combination of substances—overwhelms the body’s ability to function safely, often leading to suppressed breathing or heart failure.
What Causes an Overdose?
Various substances are associated with overdose risk, including:
- Opioids: Such as fentanyl, heroin, and prescription pain medications.
- Benzodiazepines: Often higher risk when combined with other central nervous system depressants.
- Alcohol: High volumes can lead to respiratory depression or choking.
- Stimulants: Such as cocaine and methamphetamine, which can cause cardiac events or seizures.
- Combinations: Mixing different types of drugs (polysubstance use) significantly increases the risk of a fatal event.
Why Fentanyl Has Increased Overdose Risk
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is 50 to 100 times more potent than morphine. Because it is powerful and relatively inexpensive to produce, illicitly manufactured fentanyl is often mixed into other drugs, sometimes without the user’s knowledge. This unexpected exposure is a primary driver in the recent rise of overdose deaths.
What Are the Signs of an Overdose?
Recognizing the signs of an overdose quickly can save a life. If you suspect someone is overdosing, treat it as a medical emergency immediately.
Possible Signs of an Opioid Overdose
- The person cannot be awakened or is unresponsive.
- Breathing is very slow, shallow, or has stopped entirely.
- Gurgling or choking sounds.
- Lips or fingertips are blue, gray, or discolored.
- Pupils are extremely small (“pinpoint pupils”).
- The body feels limp.
Signs of Other Types of Overdose
Symptoms can vary depending on the substance used:
- Stimulant Overdose: May involve chest pain, severe agitation, seizures, very high body temperature, or loss of consciousness.
- Alcohol Overdose: May involve confusion, vomiting, seizures, irregular breathing, or an inability to wake up.
What Should You Do If You Suspect an Overdose?
1. Call 911
Immediate professional medical attention is required. Do not wait to see if the person’s symptoms improve.
2. Administer Naloxone (Narcan)
Naloxone is a life-saving medication that can temporarily reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. It is safe to administer even if you aren’t certain an opioid is involved. It will not harm someone who is not experiencing an opioid overdose. Note that multiple doses may be required for potent substances like fentanyl.
3. Provide Rescue Breathing or CPR
Follow the instructions provided by the 911 dispatcher. If the person is breathing but unconscious, place them on their side in the recovery position to prevent choking.
4. Stay With the Person
Monitor them closely until emergency responders arrive. Naloxone is a temporary fix and does not replace the need for emergency medical care.
How Naloxone Can Help Prevent an Overdose Death
Naloxone works by quickly binding to opioid receptors and blocking the effects of opioid drugs. Because it is easy to use and widely available without a prescription in many areas, health officials recommend that anyone who uses opioids (or has a loved one who does) should carry it. While it is a critical tool for opioid detox and harm reduction, it is not a treatment for the underlying substance use disorder itself.
Why Overdose Risk Can Increase After a Period of Abstinence
One of the most dangerous times is immediately following a period of abstinence, such as after detox, residential treatment, incarceration, or hospitalization. During these periods, the body’s tolerance to the substance decreases. If a person returns to the same dose they used previously, their body may no longer be able to tolerate it, leading to a fatal overdose.
Relapse does not mean treatment has failed, but it does mean that the risk of overdose is significantly higher.
Medically supervised detox and residential rehab are crucial safety measures following a relapse. Professional guidance and 24/7 monitoring ensure that individuals remain stable and supported during this period of high vulnerability, which can significantly mitigate the heightened risks associated with returning to substance use.
Can an Overdose Be Prevented?
While no substance use is guaranteed to be “safe,” there are practical harm-reduction strategies to reduce risk:
- Carry naloxone and ensure others know how to use it.
- Avoid using substances alone so someone is there to help in an emergency.
- Avoid mixing substances, especially opioids with alcohol or benzodiazepines.
- Test substances for fentanyl when testing strips are available.
- Seek professional treatment to address the root causes of substance use.
What Happens After an Overdose?
An overdose is a traumatic event, but it can also serve as a turning point for seeking long-term recovery.
Medical Evaluation
The first step is a full medical evaluation to treat the immediate emergency, monitor for complications, and identify exactly what substances caused the reaction.
Addressing the Underlying Disorder
Connecting with a continuum of care is essential for long-term safety. This may include:
- Medically supervised detox to safely manage withdrawal.
- Residential or outpatient treatment programs.
- Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) or Medications for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD).
- Behavioral therapies and ongoing relapse-prevention support.
How Families Can Respond After an Overdose
If your loved one has experienced an overdose, your response can make a difference.
- Avoid blame or “tough love” approaches that rely on shame.
- Recognize that this is a health crisis and a traumatic event for everyone involved.
- Encourage a professional clinical assessment rather than trying to manage the situation alone.
- Seek support for yourself through family therapy or support groups.
Finding Help for Substance Use in San Diego
At Coastal Detox of Southern California, we provide a safe, medically supervised environment for detox right here in San Diego. We understand that the financial aspect of treatment can be a major barrier, and our team works closely with patients to verify insurance and navigate available resources.
Detox is often the first step toward a new life. Our individualized treatment plans are designed to help you navigate withdrawal safely and prepare for the next stage of your recovery journey.
If you or someone you love is struggling, reach out to Coastal Detox today for a confidential assessment.
FAQs About Overdose Awareness Day
When is International Overdose Awareness Day?
International Overdose Awareness Day is held every year on August 31. It is a global event dedicated to raising awareness, ending overdose, and remembering those lost to the crisis.
What is the purpose of Overdose Awareness Day?
Overdose Awareness Day provides an opportunity for people to publicly mourn loved ones without feeling guilt or shame. It aims to educate the public about overdose prevention, reduce the stigma of drug-related deaths, and advocate for better access to treatment and support services.
What are the signs of an overdose?
Common signs include unresponsiveness, slow or stopped breathing, blue or gray-tinged skin (especially lips and nails), and pinpoint pupils. If you see these signs, call 911 immediately.
What should you do if someone is overdosing?
Call 911 immediately. If you suspect an opioid overdose, administer naloxone if available. Perform rescue breathing or CPR if trained and instructed by the dispatcher, and stay with the person until medical professionals arrive.
Can naloxone reverse an overdose?
Naloxone can temporarily reverse the life-threatening effects of an opioid overdose by restoring normal breathing. However, it only works on opioids and its effects are temporary; emergency medical care is still required.
Can someone overdose after getting sober?
Yes, someone can overdose even after getting sober. In fact, the risk is often higher because their tolerance has dropped. If they use the same amount they used before they stopped, their body may be overwhelmed, leading to an overdose.
Where can I get help for substance use in San Diego?
Coastal Detox offers medically supervised detox and inpatient drug and alcohol rehab in the San Diego area. You can contact our admissions team for a verification of benefits and to discuss your treatment options.
Clinically Reviewed For
Accuracy By Kay Saffe, LPCC
Kay Saffe, LPCC, is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and Clinical Director at Coastal Detox of Southern California. She holds a Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of San Diego and a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from New College of Florida. She has been in recovery for over 4 years and is passionate about using positive psychology to help others through their own recovery journey. Outside of Coastal Detox, Kay also works as a surf instructor and volunteers with local San Diego non-profits to help treat at-risk individuals in both English and Spanish. Originally from Miami, Florida, Kay is a first-generation American with Argentinian heritage.
