(HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont today announced that he has signed a proclamation declaring Monday, August 31, 2020 as Overdose Awareness Day in the State of Connecticut to raise awareness and reduce the stigma of the nationwide problem surrounding opioid overdoses.
“Addiction is an illness that should be treated just as any other public health emergency, and we cannot allow this epidemic to continue consuming our families and residents,” Governor Lamont said. “We need to send the message that this disorder can no longer hide in the shadows and be treated like something that shouldn’t be discussed. Resources are available for those seeking treatment, as well as for the families and loved ones who want to provide support. We need to spread this message of hope far and wide so that we can save lives or prevent someone from going down the path of addiction altogether.”
“As we fight the COVID-19 pandemic, we know that many families have been and continue to be under severe stress due to economic hardships and being in isolation. People are hurting and are overburdened, and this has contributed to a spike in overdose deaths,” Lt. Governor Susan Bysiewicz said. “Today, we remember all of the lives that were lost to addiction and we recommit ourselves to reducing stigma, securing the funding needed to provide treatment and prevention, and ensuring everyone has access to telehealth.”
To connect with resources that provide valuable information on opioid use disorder in Connecticut, visit www.liveloud.org or call 1-800-563-4086 any time, day or night.
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WHEREAS, today we join families, advocates, friends, non-profits, mentors, lawmakers, hospitals and healthcare providers in recognizing an annual global event held each year to raise awareness of overdoses, reduce the stigma of drug-related deaths, and acknowledge the grief felt by so many; and WHEREAS, Connecticut residents are more likely to die from unintentional drug overdose than a motor vehicle accident. The majority of these deaths are linked to overdose of prescription opioid painkillers and illicit opioids; and WHEREAS, the stigma of addiction can be a barrier to preventing someone who is in need from seeking help and has been an epidemic that has uprooted the lives of people from all socio-economic backgrounds, races, and ages; and WHEREAS, together we can stop the stigma. Addiction is a disease, and like any disease, treatment can help. With patience and support, there are resources and treatment options available no matter what stage individuals find themselves. Recovery is possible; now THEREFORE, I, Ned Lamont, Governor of the State of Connecticut, in memory of the countless lives lost and those we can help save together, do hereby officially proclaim August 31, 2020 as OVERDOSE AWARENESS DAY |
**Download: Proclamation declaring August 31, 2020 as Overdose Awareness Day in Connecticut