August 31st marks International Overdose Awareness Day – an event created to raise awareness about overdose prevention, support those who have been affected by overdose, and honour those we have lost. At Stigma-Free Mental Health Society, we recognize the importance of addressing substance use with compassion and understanding rather than judgment. This day is an opportunity for our community to reduce the stigma surrounding substance use and work together to end overdose.
Overdose can affect individuals from all walks of life, regardless of age, background, or circumstances. It’s important to approach overdose accurately and objectively, viewing it as a public health issue. By reducing stigma, we can work together to prevent overdose and encourage people to seek support without fear of judgment or discrimination.
Knowing the Signs and Symptoms of Overdose
Educating ourselves on the symptoms is crucial for preventing harm. Overdose can manifest differently depending on the substance used, and it is important to know the signs for each substance. For example, the following symptoms may occur during an opioid overdose:
- Becoming unresponsive
- Blue, gray, or green-tinged lips
- Difficulty breathing (or not breathing)
- The person appears to be asleep and/or snoring, but you cannot wake them.
If you suspect someone is experiencing an overdose, call emergency services immediately.
Risk Factors and Prevention
Understanding the risk factors associated with overdose can help us proactively identify and address them. If someone fears negative judgement when seeking help, they may be reluctant to do so. In addition to experiencing stigma, someone may be at higher risk of overdose if they:
- Combine multiple drugs at once
- Use drugs that may be compromised
- Are experiencing addiction
- Use substances by themselves or in a new environment
Resources and Support
If you or someone you know is using substances, there are resources available across Canada. Supervised consumption services, including NORS (National Overdose Response Service), are accessible to help prevent overdose. Contact NORS at 1-888-688-NORS (6677).
Drug Rehab Services (DRS) Canada is available nationwide to help people who are experiencing addiction find treatment. To contact DRS Canada and learn about treatment options, call 1-877-254-3348. You may also search for counseling services and recovery centers in your area. To find more mental health and addictions services in your province, visit our Help & Community Resources page.
We are sharing these resources to help you find support and notify you of the range and diversity of resources available; however, Stigma-Free Mental Health Society does not officially endorse these organizations and is not responsible for the services or information they provide.
Stigma-Free Education and Awareness
If you are interested in educating yourself and others further on substance use, we invite you to browse our
Addressing Substance Use Stigma in Rural Communities
In this article, guest writer Matt Begg shares important insights about addressing stigma in rural areas and supporting those with substance use challenges.
Addictions and Mental Illness: Lesson Plan for Grades 8 – 12
While overdose can happen to anyone who uses substances, regardless of dependence, addiction can increase the risk. This lesson plan for school staff is designed to teach students about the science behind addiction and the connection between addictions and mental illness, encouraging an empathetic and non-judgemental approach.
Overdose is preventable. By addressing substance use with compassion, education, and support, we can work towards a world where everyone has access to the resources they need. On August 31st, let’s come together as a community to support those who have been affected by overdose and reduce stigma.
References
City of Edmonton. (n.d.). | Drug Poisoning Response and Prevention
Canada.ca. Health Canada. (2024, August 23). Get help with substance use.
Penington Institute. (2024a). For Media. International Overdose Awareness Day.
Penington Institute. (2024b). Overdose Prevention. International Overdose Awareness Day.
Author: Monique Zizzo
