Make plans to attend the International Overdose Awareness Day event at Chapin Memorial Library in Myrtle Beach.
This is the largest annual campaign to spread overdose awareness, remember those who have died and acknowledge family and friends who are grieving the loss of loved ones who have passed away due to an overdose.
The event is set for noon to 2 p.m., on Saturday, August 31, at Chapin Memorial Library, 400 14th Avenue North.
To R.S.V.P., register a resource table or send a picture to honor a loved one, go to https://arcg.is/1Hr1Pi.
International Overdose Awareness Day is a global event held annually on August 31st to raise awareness about drug overdoses, reduce the stigma associated with drug-related deaths, and acknowledge the grief felt by families and friends who have lost loved ones to overdose. The day also aims to spread the message that overdose deaths are preventable.
Silver is the color associated with overdose awareness. Wearing silver on that day can be a simple way to show your support and start conversations.
The day is also a good time to learn about the signs of an overdose, how to respond, and the importance of naloxone.
The signs of an overdose can vary depending on the substance involved, but common symptoms include:
Opioid Overdose (e.g., Heroin, Fentanyl, Prescription Painkillers):
- Unresponsiveness: Person cannot wake up or respond to stimuli.
- Slow or No Breathing: Breathing is very slow, irregular, or has stopped.
- Choking or Gurgling Sounds: Indicative of airway obstruction or respiratory distress.
- Blue or Gray Skin, Lips, or Fingernails: Due to lack of oxygen (cyanosis).
- Pinpoint Pupils: Very small pupils that don’t respond to light.
- Cold or Clammy Skin: Skin may feel cold and damp to the touch.
Stimulant Overdose (e.g., Cocaine, Methamphetamine):
- Agitation or Paranoia: Extreme restlessness, panic, or confusion.
- High Body Temperature: Overheating or hyperthermia.
- Chest Pain: Possibly indicative of a heart attack or other cardiovascular issues.
- Seizures or Convulsions: Uncontrolled shaking or twitching.
- Unconsciousness: Sudden loss of consciousness or collapse.
Alcohol or Depressant Overdose (e.g., Benzodiazepines, Alcohol):
- Severe Drowsiness or Confusion: Inability to stay awake or severe disorientation.
- Slow or Shallow Breathing: Breathing may be dangerously slow or absent.
- Vomiting: Especially while unconscious, which poses a choking hazard.
- Hypothermia: Low body temperature, often accompanied by cold, clammy skin.
- Unresponsiveness: Lack of response to touch or sound.
How to Respond to an Overdose:
Call Emergency Services: Immediately dial emergency services (e.g., 911) and report the situation. Provide as much information as possible, including the substances involved if known.
Check Responsiveness: Try to wake the person by calling their name or rubbing their sternum with your knuckles (sternal rub).
Administer Naloxone (for Opioid Overdose): If you suspect an opioid overdose, administer naloxone (Narcan) if available. It can temporarily reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. Naloxone can be administered as a nasal spray or an injection. Follow the instructions on the packaging.
Provide Basic Life Support: If the person is not breathing or has very shallow breathing, start rescue breathing or CPR if you are trained. Place the person in the recovery position (on their side with their head supported) to prevent choking, especially if they are vomiting.
Stay with the Person: Stay with the person until emergency services arrive. Monitor their breathing and condition. If naloxone was administered and the person revives, they may become agitated or confused. Reassure them and explain what happened.
Repeat Naloxone if Necessary: If the person does not respond to the first dose of naloxone within 2-3 minutes, a second dose may be administered. Continue to monitor their condition.
By participating in International Overdose Awareness Day, you help spread awareness, reduce stigma, and potentially save lives by promoting a greater understanding of overdose and its impact on communities.