National Opioid Awareness Day: History, Facts & Insights

This is an in-depth look at all the must-know facts about National Opioid Awareness Day (2024) 🗓️ that no one tells you about. National Opioid Awareness Day is celebrated on September 21st.

Among the information you’ll find below: the history of National Opioid Awareness Day, activities to do on and how to observe this holiday, as well as amusing facts you need know about National Opioid Awareness Day.

📅 What day is National Opioid Awareness Day 2024?

In 2024, National Opioid Awareness Day is on Thursday, September 21st. It is the 3rd Thursday in September; in 2024, it is Saturday. There are until the next observance. You also can see all the fun details and facts about September 21, 2023, that you might not be aware of.

National Opioid Awareness Day is observed on September 21 to increase understanding of opioid overdose and combat the negative perceptions surrounding it. The main objectives are to raise awareness about overdoses, reduce the stigma surrounding drug-related deaths, and acknowledge the grief felt by loved ones. This day is the American version of International Overdose Awareness Day, originally established in Australia in 2001 by S. J. Finn. The significance of this observance is amplified by the ongoing opioid crisis in the United States.

📜 National Opioid Awareness Day History

Data shows that from 1999 to 2020, nearly 841,000 people lost their lives due to drug overdoses. Out of these, about 500,000 deaths were attributed to opioids, including both prescription and illegal varieties. In 2017 alone, there were approximately 70,237 drug overdose deaths, with opioids being involved in 47,600 of these cases. A survey conducted in December 2017 revealed that an estimated 130 individuals in the United States die each day due to drug overdoses related to opioids.

✅ National Opioid Awareness Day Facts

🔖 Even prescription opioids can be harmful
Prescription opioids, although legally obtained, have the potential to be harmful and detrimental to health.

🔖 Thousands have died from opioid overdose
Over the course of the opioid crisis, the United States has recorded more than 800,000 fatalities.

🔖 Opioids are available in prescription
Despite the commonly acknowledged risks associated with opioids, they are readily accessible and can be obtained through a prescription.

👍 Why Is National Opioid Awareness Day Important

National Opioid Awareness Day raises awareness about the stigma that is commonly associated with opioid usage. Stigma makes it difficult to eradicate abuse.

The work of organizations like Rx Awareness helps to avoid future incidents of opioid misuse. We would have a higher chance of winning the struggle if more individuals led more campaigns.

National Opioid Awareness Day is part of the movement to combat opioid use disorder. The opioid problem began as a result of poor management.

🙂 How To Observe National Opioid Awareness Day

⚡ Stop the stigma

⚡ Volunteer at a rehabilitation center
To support National Opioid Awareness Day, you have the opportunity to volunteer at a recovery center. Reach out to them and ask how you can contribute to helping individuals who are struggling with opioid use disorder.

⚡ Petition for better drug management policies
We all have a role to play, and ending the stigma associated with opioid use may begin with you. So, get out there and raise awareness!

📅 When is National Opioid Awareness Day?

View all 🔗 September holidays, including 🔗 Health and other 🔗 Awareness holidays.

We will continue to update this page with new information and cool facts about National Opioid Awareness Day. So be sure to check back soon.