The Fight to End Overdose
The end of August marks two significant days of awareness and remembrance in the recovery community. National Fentanyl Prevention and Awareness Day is recognized on Friday, August 21 and International Overdose Awareness Day is on Monday, August 31. While the events honor different themes, they are deeply intertwined for many individuals and families whose lives have been touched by substance use disorders. Both memorial days spur remembrance of lives taken by fentanyl or other drug overdoses, while empowering communities to take action against overdose.
National Fentanyl Prevention & Awareness Day
National Fentanyl Prevention and Awareness Day was first observed in 2022 to honor those who lost their lives to overdoses involving illegally made fentanyl. The observance also aims to raise conversations regarding overdose prevention and boost awareness of overdose risk.
As reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, overdose deaths in America have been declining since 2023, after steadily ramping up since the 1990s. While the Opioid Overdose Epidemic no longer makes front page news, deaths caused by drug overdose continue to deeply affect communities across the nation. The leading cause of overdose deaths in the United States are synthetic opioids, which includes fentanyl. According to the United States Drug Enforcement Administration, the leading cause of death for American adults aged 18 to 45 is overdose from fentanyl use.
National Fentanyl Prevention and Awareness Day serves as a call to action for communities to discuss the reality of fentanyl use, share resources for individuals and families to access help, and discuss how we can all support each other and prevent overdose.
International Overdose Awareness Day
International Overdose Awareness Day was first celebrated 25 years ago, in 2001. The day serves as a memorial to those who've lost their lives or their loved ones to an overdose, as well as a reminder of our communal responsibility to end overdose.
This year's theme is "25 Years On. Still Needed". Despite increased conversation, services provided, and reduced stigma surrounding substance use disorder, overdose continues to devastate families and communities across the world. 25 years since International Overdose Awareness Day's formation, this day of remembrance is just as paramount to societal conversation and understanding of substance use today as it was in 2001.
FLACRA is Here. For Good.
National Fentanyl Prevention and Awareness Day and International Overdose Awareness Day encourage worldwide discussion and further understanding of fentanyl addiction and the risks of drug overdose. This is the work FLACRA is committed to carrying out 365 days a year.
“After everything fentanyl took from me, I didn’t think I could get my life back. FLACRA helped me see that recovery was still possible.” ~ Carl T.
If you or a loved one are experiencing a fentanyl, synthetic opioid, or other substance related crisis, call FLACRA at 833-435-2272. FLACRA provides 24/7 immediate access to care, including overdose prevention, clinical treatment services, and recovery support throughout the Finger Lakes region.
Daily Naloxone Training Available
Every day, FLACRA offers free, confidential Naloxone training at all locations, including our Recovery Community Outreach Centers because we believe that being prepared saves lives. In about 15–20 minutes, you’ll learn how to spot an opioid overdose, how and when to administer Naloxone, and what to do next. You’ll leave with clear steps, confidence, and information on where to get supplies. Walk-ins welcome—no appointment needed. Bring a friend and learn together.
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