International Overdose Awareness Day

International Overdose Awareness Day is an annual observance held on August 31. It raises awareness of overdose, honors people who have died, acknowledges the grief of families and friends, and supports prevention efforts in communities around the world.

History of International Overdose Awareness Day

International Overdose Awareness Day began in 2001 as a remembrance event at The Salvation Army needle exchange in Melbourne, Australia. Since 2012, it has been led by the Penington Institute, an Australian nonprofit organization focused on reducing drug-related harm. The campaign has grown into a global day of action, with communities holding events, sharing resources, and promoting evidence-based overdose prevention.

An overdose happens when a person takes a toxic amount of a drug, medication, alcohol, or another substance. It may be accidental or intentional, and it can affect breathing, heart function, consciousness, and other vital body systems. Overdose is a medical emergency and should always be treated as urgent.

Important Information About International Overdose Awareness Day

Recognizing possible signs of overdose can save lives. Warning signs may include:

• Very small or very large pupils, or pupils that do not respond normally to light.
• Severe drowsiness, confusion, agitation, or inability to wake the person.
• Slow, irregular, or stopped breathing.
• Cold, clammy, unusually hot, pale, blue, or grayish skin.
• Vomiting, choking, gurgling sounds, or difficulty staying conscious.
• Seizures, collapse, irregular heartbeat, or loss of consciousness.

If an overdose is suspected, call emergency services immediately and stay with the person until help arrives. If naloxone is available and an opioid overdose is possible, follow local guidance and the product instructions.

Ways to Observe International Overdose Awareness Day

International Overdose Awareness Day can be observed by attending a local vigil, remembrance event, training session, or community discussion. People can also share accurate overdose prevention information, support families affected by overdose, learn how to recognize an emergency, and help reduce stigma around substance use and grief.

Organizations may use the day to offer education, distribute prevention resources, promote access to naloxone where it is legal and available, or support harm reduction and treatment services in their communities.

When Is International Overdose Awareness Day in 2026?

International Overdose Awareness Day is observed on August 31 each year.

Observations