Addictions and Mental Health Services – Hastings Prince Edward (AMHS-HPE) is collaborating with community partners to recognize International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD) in Belleville at Market Square from 2:30 – 4:00 p.m. on August 31. This event is part of the world’s largest annual campaign to end overdose and reduce stigma.
The event raises awareness of the current opioid crisis and the impact of stigma, and focuses on ways to reduce stigma. Hastings Prince Edward Public Health will distribute naloxone kits and demonstrate how to use them to reverse the effects of an overdose. People with lived experience will share their stories, and AMHS-HPE will provide addictions and mental health resources. A moment of silence will be held to remember those who have died and acknowledge the grief of family and friends left behind.
A highlight of the event will be the unveiling of a commissioned piece of art by local artist Sarah Winn which represents the impact of the stigma of overdose and the importance of support. The commission was made possible by a City of Belleville Arts and Culture Grant.
*Preliminary data indicates that there were 31 opioid-related deaths in Hastings and Prince Edward Counties in 2021 and over 2600 deaths in Ontario in 2021. Statistics link – https://www.publichealthontario.ca/en/data-and-analysis/substance-use/interactive-opioid-tool#/trends.
Visit www.amhs-hpe.ca/international-overdose-awareness-day-2022 to learn more about the IOAD 2022 event.
Visit https://www.overdoseday.com to learn more about IOAD.
