Each year on August 31, individuals, families, organizations, and communities across Canada and around the world observe International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD).
Chatham-Kent Drug Awareness Council officials say this day sheds light on the causes of drug poisonings, including failed drug policies, the toxic unregulated drug supply, and the war on people who use drugs.
Today in Canada, 22 people will die due to toxic drug poisoning.
From 2016 to 2021, the rates of opioid-related ED visits and opioid poisoning deaths experienced in Chatham-Kent have increased more than 400%.
The pandemic years have brought about the largest spike in ED visit and death rates, which have more than doubled since just 2019, Chatham-Kent Drug Awareness Council officials say.
In the first quarter of 2022, there have already been nine opioid-related deaths in Chatham-Kent, putting CK’s rate above the provincial average and among the highest across Ontario.
“These are not just numbers; these are people,” stated Scott Roose, Director, Chatham-Kent Drug Awareness Council, in a media release.
“They are parents, siblings, children, aunts, uncles, cousins, grandparents, friends, colleagues, and neighbours. And their tragic deaths, and the pain experienced by their families and friends, are preventable.”
It is more important than ever to come together as a community to remember those who have died, honour the grief of family and friends left behind, and take action to end the drug poisoning epidemic.
Chatham-Kent Drug Awareness Council officials are inviting people to join them on August 31 anytime from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Hope Haven in Chatham or James St. Drop-In Centre in Wallaceburg to share memories, stories, support, and resources.
In the spirit of remembrance and coming together, the events will also include food and refreshments, local musical talent, art activities, naloxone training and substance use education.
Chatham-Kent Drug Awareness Council officials say while International Overdose Awareness Day is an important day for remembrance and action, there are things people can all do every day to reduce stigma for people who use drugs and end drug poisonings.
Here is what you can do to help:
A Time to Remember:
– Wear a purple shirt or purple ribbon on August 31
– Paint a stone purple and write a message to someone you love who uses drugs
– Offer space and a listening ear to someone who is affected by the drug poisoning epidemic
– Post a message on the International Overdose Awareness Day Memoriam Wall
– Reach out to someone you trust or call the Mental Health First Response Line 1-866-299-7447 if needed
A Time to Act:
– Learn how to respond to a toxic drug poisoning, carry naloxone, and encourage others to get training
– Use person first language when talking about substance use
– Challenge stigmatizing attitudes and behaviours. Try to practice more compassionate, person-centered approaches
– Attend a CKDAC general membership meeting to learn about work being done in our community
– Donate to the Chatham-Kent Drug Awareness Council and follow @CKDAC on Facebook and Instagram or go to www.ckdac.ca.
More details can be found, here: https://www.overdoseday.com/
