International Overdose Awareness Day -- Aug. 31

International Overdose Awareness Day

Observed on Aug. 31, International Overdose Awareness Day is the world’s largest annual campaign to end overdose, remember without stigma those who have died by overdose, and acknowledge the grief of the family and friends left behind. Although substance use disorder is a disease, there is still a social stigma associated with drug use and overdose deaths, and people of all backgrounds and socio-economic levels are affected by addiction. The Mercer County Department of Human Services’ Office on Addiction Services encourages all residents to have access to naloxone, a medication that can help rapidly reverse an overdose.  Every month, the Office on Addiction Services collaborates with Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School to host a free, virtual training on the use of naloxone (brand name Narcan). Naloxone rapidly reverses an opioid overdose by attaching to opioid receptors and reversing and blocking the effects of other opioids. Examples of opioids include heroin, fentanyl, oxycodone/OxyContin, hydrocodone/Vicodin, codeine, and morphine. In the United States, the majority of overdoses are caused by opioids such as prescription medicine, heroin, or fentanyl.  When administering naloxone during an overdose, it quickly restores breathing and temporarily reverses the overdose. After administering naloxone, it is still critical to call 911 so that the individual can receive immediate medical attention. Having access to naloxone could save a life; therefore, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School will mail you a free naloxone kit if you attend a live training. The next virtual training will be held Aug. 25 at 10 a.m. Registration is required to Chip Meara at emeara@mercercounty.org by Aug. 20.   For more information on the Office on Addiction Services, please contact Ann Dorocki at 609-989-6826 or adorocki@mercercounty.org.

Other Naloxone Trainings

International Overdose Awareness Day Observation

On Aug. 31, the One Voice Initiative and Lawrence Township will host an observation of International Overdose Awareness Day from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. at Lawrence Township Central Park. There will be a memorial display, and friends and family are welcome to bring memorabilia of their loved ones who died by overdose. For those who wish to submit a picture/note before the event or who cannot attend but wish to have their loved one remembered, Mercer Council on Alcoholism and Drug Addiction will print the picture/note and put it on the display table. To submit your note or picture, please fill out this consent/submission form.

There also will be a medicine drop box to help dispose of medications in a safe and environmentally friendly way, a naloxone demonstration, and candlelight vigil. Anyone who attends can also connect to agencies regarding recovery and treatment resources.

Registration is required for this event.

To live stream the event, go to WBCB 1940am’s website or Facebook page or WBCB News’ Facebook page.  

For more information, email pcmc@mercercouncil.org. 

The Mercer County Department of Human Services fosters a comprehensive human service delivery system that enhances the health, safety, and quality of life for all residents of Mercer County. The department's goal is to create an environment of public trust by empowering and strengthening individuals and families, advocating for sound policy, mobilizing resources, and acting as champions for those citizens who are most vulnerable and in need of services.

Through its offices and divisions, the Department of Human Services provides funding to community-based organizations for those organizations to provide direct services to Mercer County residents. The department does not provide direct services to Mercer County residents, but directs Mercer County residents to where they can access services. With this funding, the Department of Human Services complies with procurement practices in accordance with the New Jersey Public Contracts Law 40:A:11-1 et seq.