International Overdose Awareness Day is being recognized in Chatham-Kent once again this year.
“The Chatham-Kent Drug Awareness Council (CKDAC) is committed to increasing awareness of the exploding overdose crisis during this global pandemic,” CKDAC officials said in a media release.
“Feelings of loneliness, fear or anxiety have been challenging for many; for people who use substances it is killing them.”
In Chatham-Kent, between January and June of 2020, there were nearly double the number of suspected opioid-related EMS calls compared to the same time in 2019, CKDAC officials added.
“COVID-19 has impacted us all,” CKDAC officials said.
“However, for people who use substances this ‘new normal’ is dire. They experience greater isolation, limited or no access to direct services or supports, and an increased impact on their mental health.”
CKDAC officials added: “In addition, the limited illegal drug supply has raised concerns in community partners on the safety of the current supply available. We need action now.”
Started in 2001 in Melbourne, Australia, International Overdose Awareness Day spreads the message about the tragedy of drug overdose death and that drug overdose is preventable, CKDAC officials say.
“This day is symbolized by wearing purple and wearing these signifies the loss of someone cherished or demonstrate support to those undergoing grief on August 31 every year,” CKDAC officials say.
“This year the CKDAC will be raising awareness of the people lost due to overdoses with a media campaign leading up to the day of remembrance with an online vigil through Facebook live. This gives the community a chance to pay tribute to those we have lost and to fight to make drug overdoses a thing of the past.”
CKDAC officials say they are raising awareness with their Purple Ribbon Campaign.
“Watch for purple ribbons in every community across Chatham-Kent as we are asking the community to show your support by tying a purple ribbon on your property or wearing one during our campaign,” CKDAC officials say.
“Also, we have t-shirts available for $10 at the United Way of Chatham-Kent. What we have been doing in the ‘War against Drugs’ has not been working. We need a paradigm shift in our thinking, and we need your help to do it.”
Follow the CKDAC on Facebook and Instagram @ckdac or go to their website www.ckdac.ca for more information and a list of local supports for people who use substances and the people around them.
