August 29, 2019
By: Dwayne Page
The DeKalb Prevention Coalition is calling on everyone to wear purple in observance of International Overdose Awareness Day on Saturday, August 31.
International Overdose Awareness Day is a global event held on August 31 each year which aims to raise awareness of overdose and reduce the stigma of a drug-related death. It also acknowledges the grief felt by families and friends remembering those who have died or had a permanent injury as a result of drug overdose.
International Overdose Awareness Day spreads the message that the tragedy of overdose death is preventable.
“We ask you to please wear purple in recognition of all who have lost their lives to overdose and also in support of their families. Please snap a picture and put it on your facebook page and hash tag that #endoverdose,” said Lisa Cripps, DeKalb Prevention Coalition Coordinator.
“In Tennessee we lost 1,776 people to overdose in 2017. In DeKalb County we lost three people in 2016. By 2017 the number more than doubled with 8 overdose deaths locally. I am sure that the 2018 numbers will be up even more. Please help us support International Overdose Awareness Day,” added Cripps.
Thousands of people die each year from drug overdose. They come from all walks of life.
Do you recognize the signs and symptoms of overdose? What is the impact of drug use and overdose on family, friends and those experiencing it?
Learn more at https://www.overdoseday.com/