Aug. 31 is International Overdose Awareness Day – a time to remember the lives we’ve lost to the overdose crisis and destigmatize addiction. It’s also a chance for us to have open conversations about why overdoses happen and how to prevent them through education, compassion, and treatment.
What Is an Overdose?
An overdose happens when someone’s bodily functions become overwhelmed by the substances they’ve taken, resulting in severe health problems like respiratory failure, coma, or even death.
Overdoses are most common when a person:
- Uses too much of a drug at once
- Combines substances like alcohol and opioids
- Starts using again after a period of sobriety
- Takes a drug that is more potent than they anticipated or contains dangerous hidden ingredients like fentanyl
Who Is at Risk?
Overdose can happen to anyone, but some groups may be at higher risk, including people who:
- Have a history of drug use or addiction
- Have relapsed after time away from substances
- Use drugs alone, without someone there to help if things go wrong
- Mix different substances
- Use drugs to self-medicate co-occurring mental health conditions
Warning Signs of an Overdose
If someone in your life regularly drinks or uses drugs, you should familiarize yourself with what to look for in an overdose:
- Slow or stopped breathing
- Pale, cold, or bluish lips or fingertips
- Gurgling or choking sounds
- Unconsciousness
- Pinpoint pupils
If you suspect someone is overdosing, call 911 immediately and stay with them until first responders arrive. Administer naloxone (brand name Narcan), which is available for free from the New Jersey Harm Reduction Coalition, if the overdose involves opioids. You could save a life.
When an Overdose Leads to Recovery
Sometimes, surviving an overdose becomes the wake-up call someone needs to realize they need help – before it’s too late.
At Maryville Integrated Care, we believe every life is worth saving. If you have experienced an overdose, it’s never too late to seek treatment and build a new future.
We offer:
- 24/7 medical detox to ease withdrawal symptoms safely
- Residential and outpatient programs tailored to your needs
- Dual-diagnosis care for people with mental health and substance use challenges
- Telehealth options and Spanish-speaking services to make support more accessible
- Placement in sober living for maintaining recovery after completing your initial treatment program
We’re Here When You’re Ready
Overdose is a preventable tragedy. Maryville makes recovery possible with harm reduction strategies, nonjudgmental care, and dignity. This Overdose Awareness Day, we remember those we’ve lost and commit to helping those who are still in need. Contact us today to request help.
