This past month, our community suffered the loss of a young woman to fatal overdose. We grieve with her family and those who knew and loved her. This devastating loss is a tragic reminder that there is still so much more work to be done in this community to prevent, treat, and support those individuals and families struggling with addiction and mental health challenges.
In the midst of the global Coronavirus pandemic, common illnesses and health concerns can be overlooked. Doctors have reported patients canceling appointments and failing to show up for routine preventative procedures. This is dangerous and life threatening. Just as the common cold and diabetes have not just 'gone away' during the current pandemic, addiction, mental health issues and death by overdose have not stopped.
Overdose Facts
I felt it was vital this month to remind our community of the following:
The United States is in the midst of the worst drug overdose epidemic in the country's history.
Drug overdoses killed 72,000 Americans in 2017--the most ever in a single year.
Drug overdose deaths have spiked drastically for 3 years in a row.
According to the Centers for Disease Control, on average, 130 Americans die every day from an opioid overdose.
Concerningly, only 1 in 10 people with addiction challenges will ever receive treatment. It is VITAL that this community encourage friends and family members to seek treatment and support if they are struggling. As a community, we need to get families and individuals through the door and realize that help--and hope--is possible.
Philipstown Hub was formed with the vision of ending the stigma surrounding addiction and mental health issues. One way to end this stigma is by talking about lives lost to overdose. The power of naming what has happened and remembering a loved one lost to overdose is vital to our approach to addiction prevention and treatment.
International Overdose Awareness Day - August 31, 2020
Please join me in commemorating International Overdose Awareness day on August 31, 2020, a global event held each year to raise awareness of overdose and reduce the stigma of a substance-related death. It also acknowledges the grief felt by families and friends remembering those who have died or had a permanent injury as a result of drug overdose. The Hub has created a 'safe virtual space' for Philipstown families to remember a loved one lost to overdose on our website at www.philipstownhub.org/overdoseawarenessday/2020, or by clicking below.
International Overdose Awareness Day Virtual Memorial
In the midst of our collective grief at the remembrance of these lives lost, it is important--ALWAYS--to remember that RECOVERY IS POSSIBLE. We are surrounded by people in our community who are living healthy, fulfilling lives after years struggling with substance use. It is essential to spread the message of hope that help is available. If you have a family member or friend who is struggling with mental health and addiction issues, please encourage them to call the Philipstown Hub at 845-809-5050, confidentially text 845-260-1001, or email info@philipstownhub.org.
I remain committed to this work and to our community.
Health and hope,
Danielle Pack McCarthy
August 2020