Substance use and overdose can affect anyone. It remains a health risk across the country and here in Montgomery County. On August 29, the County will mark International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD) and National Recovery Month.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports there were more than 107,000 overdose deaths across the country in 2023. That was a 3% decrease from the year before, but the numbers are still staggering.
The Maryland Department of Health reported 2,513 overdose deaths statewide last year, and 138 of those deaths happened in Montgomery County. Researchers estimate fentanyl is to blame for about 87% of overdose deaths.
International Overdose Awareness Day & National Recovery Month
The International Overdose Awareness Day happens globally each year on August 31. It is the world’s largest annual campaign to end overdose. National Recovery Month takes place in September. Its goal is to bring attention to substance use and to find new treatments for people battling addiction.
The County is observing both occasions since they happen so close together. The event will take place at Memorial Plaza, 101 Monroe Street in Rockville. It starts at 5 p.m. and will conclude with a candlelight vigil starting at 7:30 p.m. The vigil will allow family members and friends to honor the lives of their loved ones who died from substance use.
Local Sponsor
Montgomery Goes Purple is helping sponsor the event. The organization is a coalition of government, school, non-profit, faith, and community groups. They work together to prevent mental health and substance use related injuries or death. They try to achieve this through education which includes reducing the stigma surrounding substance use. The group also works to ensure equitable access to treatment, recovery, preventative tools, and supportive resources.
Eliminating Stigma
Laura Mitchell is the co-founder of Montgomery Goes Purple. She said one of the biggest barriers to prevention, treatment, and recovery from mental health and substance use disorders is stigma.
“One of the best ways to reduce stigma is to talk about it-openly, honestly, and appropriately. When people suffer in isolation, are shamed and blamed for their medical condition, it worsens greatly. When they and their loved ones realize they are not alone, they come together, elevate their voices to advocate for more resources, and support each other as they would with any other disease,” Mitchell said.
Event Details
Many of the groups affiliated with Montgomery Goes Purple will have tables set up at the upcoming event. They will share their resources with the public.
However, one of the most important parts of the evening will be the candlelight vigil.
“Families and loved ones line up to come to the microphone, say their loved ones’ name and what they loved most about them. The family members will then light a battery operated candle and place it on a giant purple heart that was made for these events,” Mitchell said.
“It is very important to families to have their loved ones’ life recognized and know that they are not forgotten. It also helps to be surrounded by others who have experienced this unimaginable loss,” Mitchell added.
Helping to Spread Awareness
International Overdose Awareness Day is marking its ninth year, and it will be the third year for National Recovery Month. Mitchell says awareness of substance use is important.
“No one ever wants to imagine that it could happen to anyone they know, much less someone they love. But it happens to 295 people and families every day in the United States,” Mitchell said.
She explained that attending an event like International Overdose Awareness Day can help reduce stigma and educate everyone. She also said it can help start conversations parents need to have with their children, and people need to have with each other about substance use.
