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Every August 31, International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD) brings a global community together to take action on overdose. Hold an event, spread the message, take action today.

#IOAD2025 #OverdoseAware #EndOverdose #OneBigFamily

Overdose is preventable – when we act

What we stand for

International Overdose Awareness Day is driven by the following principles...
Overdose can and must be prevented
Overdose prevention solutions exist – let’s use them.
Criminalizing drug use hasn’t worked. Compassionate alternatives must be pursued.
Policy and legislation must exist to protect individuals and communities, and ensure basic human rights and needs are met.
Everyone has a right to respectful and comprehensive health care.
Only a community-wide effort can end overdose.
Join us to take action on overdose today.

Ways to get involved

Hold an event

Host or attend an International Overdose Awareness Day event to remember those lost to overdose, learn more about overdose, or advocate for change to end overdose.

Get resources

Download our campaign, advocacy and education resources and share messages about overdose and overdose prevention in your community or workplace today.

Post a tribute

Post a tribute to a loved one who has passed away from an overdose on the International Overdose Awareness Day tribute page. 

Get merchandise

Buying and wearing merchandise is a great way to show your support and spread the messages of International Overdose Awareness Day.

2024 IOAD Partners' Report

Download our 2024 report now to find out more about the impact of our collective efforts to end overdose.

Tributes from the community

Uncle Bobby Hamilton

One of the kindest souls I know. He was the daddy I never had and no matter how he lived his life he was great to us kids. He is missed every single day. Love you Uncle Bob. There was and never will be another like you.

... Angie

Michael Schmidt

Michael, we lost you too soon. March 24 your life was ended. People say you’re at peace now. We’d like to believe you are. You fought hard to rid yourself of the demons. You were a beautiful soul. We miss you so very much. You were an amazing son, brother, father, nephew too. The breaking of a heart is the loudest quiet ever 💔. Prayers to all the families who lost loved ones to this madness. Please know we did our best.

... Anna, David and Daddy’s Aylabug. Lots of Aunts, Uncles and Cousins

Anthony Notarstefano

Anthony was a bright light in our lives, a soul whose caring nature touched everyone he met. He had a special love for children, always patient and gentle, and his laughter was truly contagious—one of those rare, joyful sounds that could fill a room and lift any spirit. His smile was unforgettable, lighting up even the darkest days. Anthony adored his brothers and was endlessly proud of them. Protecting them was his greatest wish; he would do anything to keep them safe and happy. His sense of humor was unmatched, always ready with a joke or a funny story, making sure there was never a dull moment in our home.

... Nichole

My husband, Mark

As long as I breathe, you will be loved, remembered and celebrated….
Always part of my heart and soul….see you on the other side….
Forever, Lisa

... Lisa

Nicole Figueroa

You are missed by averi melody Esposito n Jonathan Esposito roses r red violets are blue everyday I love n miss you 4-7-90-1-16-25

... Jonathan Esposito n Averi melody Esposito

Charles Clark

It has been 8 long years without you. We all miss you more than you will ever know. You missed out on so much through the years. You would be so proud of your daughter. We think of you every day.
Love you,
Mom

... Teresa

Overdose affects everyone. From grieving families to spontaneous first responders, the impacts of overdose are far-reaching and fall indiscriminately.

Sign up to the International Overdose Awareness Day newsletter and become part of the global movement to end overdose.

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