August 31, 2024: International Overdose Awareness Day

In 2023, drug overdose deaths again exceeded 100,000 in America - a grim milestone reached for the first time ever in 2021, largely driven by opioids (notably, fentanyl). Opioids have hit the construction industry especially hard, with research showing that construction workers are significantly more likely to die of an opioid overdose than workers in other professions. Other substances with misuse potential are culprits as well, such as alcohol and methamphetamines. Even when an overdose is survived (known as a non-fatal overdose), there may be lasting physical and psychological consequences (including brain damage, hallucinations, heart arrhythmia, respiratory distress, and seizures).

August 31 is International Overdose Awareness Day. At BAC MAP, recognizing Overdose Awareness Day means reaffirming our commitment to ending overdose fatalities amongst our workforce; strengthening our efforts to reduce stigma around addiction; and remembering those we have lost to an overdose.

Information and education are key to overdose prevention. Harm reduction is an important part of risk mitigation, and becoming knowledgeable about harm reduction can save lives. The use of Naloxone, an emergency opioid antidote, is an example of a harm reduction practice. Naloxone - which is increasingly accessible without a prescription through local pharmacies and state governments - can be used to actively reverse an opioid overdose as it is happening, and thus prevent death if administered quickly enough. Some high-risk workplaces may even be legally required to carry Naloxone in the years to come (and for good reason).

It is strongly recommended that workers, leaders, and employers alike familiarize themselves with harm reduction practices, and commit to becoming more involved with the movement to prevent overdose deaths. Whether you may be seeking grief counseling following the loss of a loved one to overdose, are experiencing substance use challenges, or would like to further discuss additional aspects of the topic at hand, please contact BAC MAP by calling 1-833-MAP-TALK.

To learn more about overdose and prevention, please visit the following links:

If you or someone you know is experiencing a life-threatening emergency, please call 911. You may also obtain immediate 24/7 help from the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling 988.