August 27, 2020
By: Dwayne Page
The DeKalb Prevention Coalition in cooperation with the Tennessee Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services and the DeKalb County Recovery Court is calling on everyone to join in a special observance of International Overdose Awareness Day on Sunday, August 30.
This annual event will be held at the Gazebo of the Joe L. Evins Park across from the Smithville Fire Department. The program will feature guest speakers, LIVE music, a candle light vigil and free Narcan training. The community is encouraged to join in this effort to remember the lives impacted by the disease of addiction as well as their loved ones.
International Overdose Awareness Day is a global event held on August 31 each year which aims to raise awareness of overdose and reduce the stigma of a drug-related death. It also acknowledges the grief felt by families and friends remembering those who have died or had a permanent injury as a result of drug overdose.
Thousands of people die each year from drug overdose. They come from all walks of life. International Overdose Awareness Day spreads the message that the tragedy of overdose death is preventable.
Do you recognize the signs and symptoms of overdose? What is the impact of drug use and overdose on family, friends and those experiencing it?
Learn more at https://www.overdoseday.com/