The Medicine Hat Drug Coalition held an information display all day Monday for International Overdose Awareness Day. The group had Flags of Hope on display as well as luminaries for people to leave messages on. The annual event aims to raise awareness of overdose and reduce the stigma of drug-related death.--NEWS PHOTO MO CRANKER
Monday was the 20th annual International Overdose Awareness Day.
Associate Minister of Mental Health and Addictions Jason Luan said it was a time to remember and grieve those who have lost their lives to an overdose.
“In 2019, more than 780 people died of overdose from opioids, other drugs and alcohol in Alberta. Each of these deaths represents a member of our community – someone who was loved and deserving of compassion and support,” said Luan.
He said we can each do our part raising “awareness that overdose is preventable and recovery from addiction is possible.”
In Medicine Hat there was a booth downtown on Second Street to provide information about local supports and programs available. There was also a candlelight vigil from 5-9 p.m.
The Saamis Tepee is illuminated in the colour purple until Sept. 4 in honour of those that the community has lost due to an overdose
“Everyone deserves to have the opportunity to recover from addiction and achieve overall physical, mental and emotional wellness. Alberta’s government continues to focus on improving the mental health and addiction continuum of care in our province,” said Luan, encouraging those living in recovery from addiction to share their experience, strength and hope to help others.
The addiction helpline is a 24/7, confidential, toll-free service that provides support, information and referral to services: 1-866-332-2322.
