International Overdose Awareness Day 2026

Overdose is preventable.

International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD) is held on 31st August every year. On and around that day, individuals and communities everywhere honour loved ones lost, call for change, light buildings purple, host vigils, share stories, hold educational events, and meet with decision-makers – all to raise awareness and support evidence-based overdose prevention strategies.

At the Drug Education Network, we are committed to reducing the impact of alcohol and other drug-related harm through education and awareness. We work to increase community understanding of overdose risk, challenge stigma, and promote practical harm reduction strategies that can save lives. By empowering individuals and communities with accurate information and encouraging compassionate conversations, we aim to ensure that more people can recognise the signs of an overdose, respond appropriately, and access the support they need.