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International Overdose Awareness Day

Mark International Overdose Awareness Day with a commitment to fight the opioid crisis – spread awareness and save lives!

Monday

August 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEAugust 31

OBSERVED INInternationally

CATEGORYAwareness

SUBCATEGORYHealth Conditions

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

On August 31, the world will come together to commemorate International Overdose Awareness Day. This day serves as a global platform for raising awareness about the risks of overdose, and reducing the stigma around addiction. It also provides an opportunity to remember those who have lost their lives due to an overdose, and to honor those who are fighting in the fight against drugs and alcohol misuse. By working together and taking action, we can create a future free from drug-related deaths.

TIMELINE

International Overdose Awareness Day Timeline

Rise of Substance Misuse

During the 1960s, recreational drug use became increasingly common worldwide, leading to a rise in drug overdose fatalities.

The War on Drugs Campaign

President Richard Nixon declares "war on drugs," an initiative aimed at reducing illegal drug trade in the United States.

Opioid Crisis Emerges

Unprecedented numbers of overdose deaths were recorded in the United States, marking the beginning of the ongoing opioid crisis.

First International Overdose Awareness Day

The First International Overdose Awareness Day is organized by The Salvation Army in St Kilda, Melbourne, Australia.

Global Recognition

This observance gained global recognition and was endorsed by various international health organizations, solidifying its yearly commemoration.

Ongoing Fight Against Overdose

International Overdose Awareness Day continues to shed light on the detrimental effects of drug abuse and overdose on families and societies.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate International Overdose Awareness Day

Organize a candlelight vigil

Organize a candlelight vigil to honor those lost to overdose and to raise awareness. Invite local officials, organizations and individuals who are working to address the opioid crisis in your community.

CREATE

Create a memorial wall

Create a memorial wall with photos and artifacts of those who have died from an overdose. The wall can be displayed at a local event or online to help spread the message that overdose deaths are preventable.

HOST

Host an educational event

Host an educational event to raise awareness about the signs and symptoms of an overdose and how to respond. Invite medical professionals, first responders, and other experts to provide valuable information on the issue.

VOLUNTEER

Volunteer with a local organization

Volunteer with a local organization that is providing support, resources, and services to those affected by overdose. This could include speaking with survivors, helping to organize events, or providing support to families of those affected.

RAISE

Raise funds for research

Raise funds for research into new treatments for opioid use disorder and overdose prevention. Consider organizing a fundraiser or setting up a donation page to help support research initiatives.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why International Overdose Awareness Day is Important

Encourages responsible attitudes towards drugs

By promoting an understanding of the risks associated with drug use, International Overdose Awareness Day seeks to create a culture that encourages safe and responsible attitudes towards drugs. This is especially important in today’s society where drug abuse is increasingly prevalent among young people.

Raises awareness of overdose issues

International Overdose Awareness Day helps raise awareness about the dangers of drug overdose and how it can affect people and their families. It not only focuses on raising awareness of the issue, but also aims to tackle the stigma associated with substance use and overdoses.

Provides resources for victims & families

International Overdose Awareness Day also provides important resources for both victims and their families. Such resources include information on addiction treatment services, support groups and helplines that can provide invaluable assistance during difficult times.

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