International Overdose Awareness Day is recognized and honored on August 31 each year. A remembrance that was initiated in 2001 in Melbourne, Australia, International Overdose Awareness has resonated with communities around the globe as we all see our homes, neighborhoods, and schools affected by the public health crisis of substance misuse and overdose.
As we raise awareness, remember and grieve the lives lost, and support survivors of overdose, by coming together as a community, healing can begin. Our theme this year is Driven by Hope – an outlook and reminder that the work being done in our community is making a difference.
The momentum must continue.
Overdose can and must be prevented. We need inclusive and comprehensive health care including services for mental health, prevention education, and accessible harm reduction supplies. We need to share our struggles and our stories to aid in reducing the shame and stigma still so prominently associated with drug use and overdose.
Solutions exist – they must be implemented.
Milwaukee County Overdose Statistics:
According to the Milwaukee County Medical Examiner’s Office, fatal drug overdoses decreased from 668 in 2023 to 466 in 2024.
State and National Overdose Statistics:
According to the CDC’s National Center for Health Statistics, there were an estimated 80,391 drug overdose deaths in the United States during 2024 – a decrease of 26.9% from the 110,037 deaths estimated in 2023.
Wisconsin was one of eight states that experienced a decline in drug overdose deaths of 35% or more.
International Overdose Awareness Events:
3rd Annual Recoveree Diaries Overdose Awareness Picnic
Date: Saturday, August 9, 2025
Time: 12 noon
Location: Humboldt Park, 3000 S. Howell Avenue, Milwaukee
What to expect:
- Guest speakers from all over
- Now accepting monetary donations
- Support school supplies for underprivileged kids
- Help kids in need with school supplies
- Help the homeless with essentials
- Free food for everyone
- Merch for sale: t-shirts and tumblers
- Free haircuts for kids
Wauwatosa Overdose Awareness Event
Date: Saturday, August 23, 2025
Time: 12 noon to 2 p.m.
Location: Hart Park - Volleyball Courts, 7300 W. Chestnut St., Wauwatosa
Join the Wauwatosa Health Department to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and remember lives lost to overdose.
Whether you have been personally affected by overdose or simply want to support your community, your presence promotes healing and hope.
The event will include free t-shirts, ice cream, speakers, and a short remembrance walk.
Healing Together, Driven by Hope
Date: Friday, August 29, 2025
Time: 5 to 8 p.m.
Location: Mitchell Park, 524 S. Layton Boulevard. Milwaukee
In recognition of International Overdose Awareness Day, we are honored to host "Healing Together, Driven by Hope" - a community-focused event dedicated to promoting healing and supporting those who are grieving. This gathering aims to create a safe and nurturing space for individuals and families affected by overdose, as well as those seeking to understand and cope with their grief. The event will feature a variety of stations, each providing unique activities designed to foster healing and reflection. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage in:
- Poetry Station: A space for expressing emotions through writing and reading heartfelt poetry.
- Typewriting Station: Participants can share their thoughts and feelings in a nostalgic way, using vintage typewriters.
- Yoga: Gentle yoga sessions focusing on mindfulness and relaxation, helping participants reconnect with their bodies and breath.
- Picture Printing Station: A creative area where attendees can capture and print memories of loved ones, encouraging reflection and remembrance.
- Library Pop-Up: A selection of books dedicated to grief support and coping strategies, offering valuable resources for those in need.
- Affirmation Memorial Rock Station: Participants can paint rocks with affirmations and messages of hope, leaving a lasting tribute to honor those we've lost.
- Resource and Support Tabling: A variety of community partners from around Milwaukee County will provide information and education on prevention and harm reduction for friends and family in attendance.
Together, we can create an environment of understanding, kindness, and hope in remembrance of those we have lost. We hope to see you there!
International Overdose Awareness Day Memorial Event - "Driven by Hope"
Date: Sunday, August 31, 2025
Time: 5 to 7:30 p.m.
Location: Washington Park, 1859 N. 40th Street, Milwaukee
Join us as we come together for International Overdose Awareness Day, a heartfelt gathering aimed at showing love, support, and healing for those affected by the devastating loss of loved ones due to substance use; as well as the survivors of overdose. This event is a space for community solidarity remembrance, and hope.
Throughout the event, we will feature inspiring speakers who have bravely navigated their own recovery journeys and those dealing with the loss of loved ones due to substance use. Their stories provide insight and encouragement, highlighting the power of resilience and the importance of support in overcoming adversity.
A special Dedication Station will be available, allowing attendees to honor and remember those who have been lost to overdose. Participants can create a symbol of love and remembrance, creating a powerful visual tribute in our community.
As we conclude the event, we will hold a Candle Memorial Vigil, providing a serene atmosphere for reflection and commemoration. This moment will allow us to gather in unity, lighting candles in honor of those we've lost, fostering a sense of hope and healing as we stand together.
We invite everyone to join us in this important event to raise awareness, share stories, and support each other in our collective journey toward healing. Together, we can create a compassionate environment that honors the lives of those lost and promotes a future filled with hope.
Please mark your calendars, and feel free to reach out if you have any questions or suggestions regarding these events. Your input is invaluable, and we look forward to collaborating closely with all of you.
International Overdose Awareness Day Blog Posts
Safe & Sound is a RISE Drug Free MKE coalition partner. Here's a message from them regarding International Overdose Awareness Day.
International Overdose Awareness Day is recognized and honored on August 31 each year. A remembrance that was initiated in 2001 in Melbourne, Australia, International Overdose Awareness has resonated with communities around the globe as we all see our homes, neighborhoods, and schools affected by the public health crisis of substance misuse and overdose.
As we raise awareness, remember and grieve the lives lost, and support survivors of overdose, by coming together as a community, healing can begin. Our theme this year is Driven by Hope – an outlook and reminder that the work being done in our community is making a difference.
The momentum must continue.
Resources and Fact Sheets
- CDC Overdose Prevention
- Helping a Loved One Dealing with Mental and/or Substance Use Disorders: Starting the Conversation
- IOAD Overdose Prevention
- Milwaukee County Harm Reduction Vending Machines
- Milwaukee County Overdose Data
- Milwaukee Prevention Journal
- SAMHSA's 2024 National Survey on Drug Use and Health
- Setting Boundaries with Alcohol and Other Drugs Campaign
- Think a Family Member Has a Substance Use Disorder?
