National Opioid Awareness Day is a crucial observance dedicated to raising awareness about opioid addiction, preventing overdoses, and remembering those lost to the opioid epidemic.
Quick Facts
- When is it: August 21st annually
- Tagged as: National Fentanyl Prevention and Awareness Day
- What’s the hashtag: #StopFentanylDeaths
- When was it founded: 2022
- Who founded it: Coalition of grassroots organizations and affected families
History
The day was established in response to the growing opioid crisis in America, particularly the surge in fentanyl-related deaths. It serves as a platform for coordinated response from organizations and individuals impacted by fentanyl overdoses.
Timeline
- 1999: First wave of opioid crisis begins with prescription opioids
- 2010: Second wave emerges with heroin overdoses
- 2013: Third wave starts with synthetic opioids, mainly fentanyl
- 2022: First National Fentanyl Prevention and Awareness Day observed
Dates by Next Year 2025
| Year | Month | Date |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | August | 21 |
| 2026 | August | 21 |
| 2027 | August | 21 |
| 2028 | August | 21 |
| 2029 | August | 21 |
Observed
The day is marked by memorial services, educational programs, and awareness campaigns across the United States. Communities display purple flags to represent lives lost to overdoses.
Fun Facts About Opioid Awareness
- Naloxone can reverse an opioid overdose within minutes
- Purple is the official color of overdose awareness
- Fentanyl test strips can detect the presence of fentanyl in other drugs
- All 50 states have naloxone access laws
Quiz
- When is National Opioid Awareness Day?
- What color represents overdose awareness?
- What medication can reverse an opioid overdose?
-(Answers: August 21; Purple; Naloxone)
FAQs
Q: How can I participate?
A: Share awareness messages, attend local events, learn about naloxone use
Q: Where can I find help?
A: Contact 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline or local treatment centers
Importance of Opioid Awareness
This day plays a vital role in educating the public about the dangers of opioids, reducing stigma, and promoting life-saving resources and treatment options.
Related
- International Overdose Awareness Day (August 31)
- Recovery Month (September)
- World Drug Day (June 26)
- Mental Health Awareness Month (May)