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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.

#IOAD2026 #OverdoseAware #EndOverdose 

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.

2025 IOAD Partners' Report

Download our 2025 report now to find out more about the impact of our collective efforts to end overdose.

Tributes from the community

Joshua Fettwrs

He was 25 had his whole young life ahead of him. He loved riding dirt bikes and horses . Loved the Colorado river and having fun with all his family and friends. HE OD’d on somas and oxy

... Rachael

Taylorann my daughter

My sweet Taylorann, my darling daughter you are now a beautiful angel. I can’t believe it’s been 4 years January since you passed away. Taylorann you were a shining light, a loving caring woman with a big heart. I miss you so much, not a day goes by that I don’t think about you. Your life was cut short, my forever 29. You will always be my shining star, now you shine in heaven. I will love you forever, shine bright my beautiful star /daughter love mom 💔

... Ann

Noah Franklin Loper

Noah “Bird.”

It’s hard to believe that this April marks five years since we lost you. You were only 21, just weeks away from turning 22. Life has kept moving, but the space you left behind has never really filled. You are still missed in the quiet moments, in the music we hear, and in the memories that seem to show up when we least expect them.

You had a way of making everything feel alive. Whether you were behind a drum set, picking up a guitar, or just playing around on whatever instrument was nearby, music came naturally to you. It was something people were drawn to, just like they were drawn to you. You were thoughtful, intelligent, and curious about the world — studying French, travelling to France, and dreaming about where life might take you next.

Some of the memories I hold closest are from the last couple of years we had together. Simple days spent listening to music, talking, and just being siblings and friends at the same time. Those moments mean more to me now than I could have ever understood then.

The way so many people reached out after you were gone showed just how many lives you touched. You were loved deeply, and you still are. Not a day goes by that you aren’t thought of, talked about, or felt in some way.

We carry you with us always.
Love you forever, Bird.

... Maddie Loper

Levi Feuerherm

My Levi, you were someone that pushed me to be my true self. I wish I would of been the one to push you to help overcome your addiction. I will cherish our moments, the good and the bad. You were a free chaotic spirit, but with a big heart that just wanted to find love and a family. I only wish you could of seen that you had it all along. Our son and I will honour you and you will always be in our hearts. I know that you are at rest now and finally at peace from those demons that haunted you. Forever my Levi. Until we meet again on the other side. Always, your Brenda

... Brenda

Aaron H-J

Remembered with love as deep as the ocean, heart-bursting pride, knee-buckling sorrow, and eternal gratitude for the years we had. Always with me in my heart dear boy,

... your loving mum, Lindi

Jess

To my cousin that left us too early, I love you dearly. Not a day goes by I don’t miss you. Forever 19 my angel. x

... Amelia