Information Day in Waterford to mark International Overdose Awareness Day

Waterford's HSE Substance Misuse Services are to mark International Overdose Awareness Day by holding an information event on Awareness and Information on Overdose and Overdose Prevention.

The HSE team, in partnership with the South East Family Support Network, will be hosting a stand from 2pm to 4pm on Wednesday, August 28, in Central Library (Lady Lane, Waterford X91 V045), where information will be available towards creating an awareness of overdose, the responses to overdose and the supports available to individuals or families affected by overdose.

International Overdose Awareness Day, observed on August 31 every year, seeks to create a better understanding of overdose, reduce the stigma of drug-related deaths and create change that reduces the harms associated with drug use. 

This year the HSE’s Waterford Substance Misuse Services were keen to mark the event by providing education and awareness to service users, their families and also to the wider community.

Nationally, the HSE National Social Inclusion Office will also be running an event on Friday, August 30, as part of the world’s annual campaign to raise awareness of drug-related overdose. 

People can join this online event to help end overdose, remember those who have died without stigma and acknowledge the grief experienced by family and friends left behind. 

This year's theme is: “Together We Can”.

Additional information on the event and a range of resources on substance misuse can be found at www.Drugs.ie or you can e-mail the Drugs and Alcohol Helpline at helpline@hse.ie.