International Overdose Awareness Day August 30 2019
The South East Family Support Network is marking International Overdose Awareness Day 2019 on August 30 and invites you to join us.
Overdose Awareness Day has been a key remembrance event for those who have died from fatal drug overdoses since 2001. On August 31 thousands of people worldwide will stand alongside the friends and families of fatal overdose victims to reflect on those who have been lost. The event is organised on the understanding that no-one need feel shame or disgrace over a drug overdose.
Overdose Awareness Day offers all who have been affected by overdose a chance to publicly mourn and help the wider community understand that fatal overdose profoundly affects mainstream society. The day aims to raise awareness of overdose and reduce the stigma of drug-related deaths whilst allowing us to acknowledge the grief felt by families and friends. The day is about remembering those who have lost loved ones or suffered permanent injury as a result of drug overdose. It aims to spread the message that the tragedy of overdose death and injury is preventable
The day also serves as a warning that not only illicit drugs can be dangerous and no-one is immune to overdose. With the number of fatalities from prescription drugs growing August 31 is also a chance to see that medicines are not always our friends. Painkillers and other pharmacy drugs play an important medical role but their careless use can have tragic long-term consequences.
The South East Family Support Network is promoting awareness of naloxone and are providing training for family members in administering the opioid antidote as a way of saving lives.
The SER Family Support Network is holding Overdose Awareness Events in;
Kilkenny – Outside Town Hall, High Street, Kilkenny Friday 30th August @ 12-2.30pm
Waterford- John Roberts Square, Waterford, Friday 30th of August@ 12-2.30pm
Carlow – Fairgreen Shopping Centre, Friday, 30th of August @ 12-2.30pm
