End Substance Use Disorder Commemorates Overdose Awareness Day

End Substance Use Disorder released a statement today recognizing Overdose Awareness Day, honoring the lives lost to overdose, and calling attention to the solutions that can prevent deaths.

“Overdose Awareness Day is a time to recognize the loss of our loved ones and to take action to prevent deaths and suffering,” said Erin Schanning, president of End Substance Use Disorder. “As a family member of loved one lost to an overdose, the most tragic part of this day for me is knowing that overdoses are preventable and that people with substance use disorder can heal when they have access to treatment and recovery solutions. Today, we honor those no longer with us by holding ourselves and our lawmakers accountable to real action that can end the suffering and support healing.”

Over 841,000 people have died from an overdose over the last two decades, with 2020 marking the deadliest year on record. Overdoses are the leading cause of death for Americans under the age of 50 and a leading cause of maternal mortality. Substance use disorder impacts nearly every household yet fewer than 1 in 10 receive treatment.

End Substance Use Disorder has organized a day of action today for members of Congress and organizations to speak up in favor of the Mainstreaming Addiction Treatment (MAT) Act, a broadly supported bipartisan bill that can prevent overdoses, increase access to treatment, and reduce stigma. The bill is one of the most important solutions needed to end the overdose crisis.

Today, we recognize the lives lost to overdose and the strength of their loved ones who are standing up to save lives. Every person with substance use disorder - no matter their income or background - should have access to the support they need to heal, without stigma or shame. We call on lawmakers to act today and ensure our families are not alone in facing this preventable and treatable medical condition. We all deserve access to basic healthcare and support we need to be well.