Overdose Awareness Day and Recovery Month

Each year, we observe Overdose Awareness Day on August 31 and National Recovery Month in September. This is a time to acknowledge those who have lost loved ones to drug overdose and to recognize the ongoing efforts of people working toward recovery from substance use disorders and mental illness. It's also an opportunity to commend the work being done to support people in their recovery journeys.

In 2022, 4,915 Ohioans tragically lost their lives to unintentional drug overdoses-a devastating toll that reflects years of struggle in our communities. In response, agencies across the state have intensified their long-standing commitment to making overdose prevention and substance abuse recovery a top priority.

The Project DAWN (Deaths Avoided with Naloxone) program, within the Ohio Department of Health is a key part of these efforts. Through a statewide network, Project DAWN distributes overdose prevention materials and provides education and harm reduction services. To find a location near you, visit the Project DAWN dashboard. You can also order free prevention resources by mail at Naloxone.Ohio.Gov.

The Ohio Department of Health's Violence and Injury Prevention Section (VIPS) and Project DAWN, in collaboration with RecoveryOhio and the Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, work together to collect data on substance abuse and overdose. This data helps guide future prevention and treatment strategies across the state.

Overdoses are preventable, and recovery is possible. Support is available. If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health or addiction crisis, you can reach out to the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by call, text, or chat. This three-digit number connects you to a trained specialist who can provide help and support 24/7, free and confidentially.

To learn more and participate in events throughout this month, visit RecoveryOhio for additional information.