As we observe Overdose Awareness Week from August 25th to August 31st, 2024, Blu Alliance Counseling Center stands in solidarity with individuals, families, and communities affected by substance use disorder, and the crisis they are facing. This week, declared by the President of the United States Joseph R. Biden Jr., is a call to action—a time to reflect on the progress we have made in combating fatalities due to overdose, and to renew our collective efforts to support those struggling with substance use disorders.
The Substance Use Crisis: A National and Global Challenge
The opioid epidemic has had a devastating impact on countless lives across America. Despite recent progress in reducing overdose deaths, the toll remains staggering. At Blu Alliance Counseling Center, we understand the profound grief of losing a loved one to overdose, and we share in the commitment to preventing these tragic deaths.
International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD), observed on August 31st, is the world’s largest annual campaign to end overdose. This year’s theme, “Together We Can,” emphasizes the power of community when we unite to tackle this crisis. It is a reminder that each of us has a role to play in saving lives—whether through raising awareness, offering support, or advocating for change.
Connecting to Support: Our Role in Recovery
At Blu Alliance Counseling Center, we are dedicated to ensuring that individuals battling addiction have access to the support they need to achieve recovery. We recognize that overcoming substance use disorders is a challenging journey, one that requires a network of care and resources. Our mission is to connect individuals with the right recovery facilities, providing referrals to evidence-based treatment programs and resources that are essential for long-term success.
We believe that no one should have to face addiction alone. By guiding individuals to the appropriate services and support networks, we help them find hope and a path forward. Whether you are seeking help for yourself or a loved one, Blu Alliance Counseling Center is here to assist you in navigating the available options and connecting you to the care that best meets your needs.
Standing Together for Change
This Overdose Awareness Week, we call on all members of our community to stand together in the fight against overdose. Whether you are someone who has been directly impacted by this crisis or you are an ally, your voice and actions are vital. Together, we can combat the stigmatization of substance use disorders, promote effective treatment, and celebrate the resilience of those in recovery.
As we observe this week, let us remember those we have lost and honor their memory by committing to the work that still lies ahead. At Blu Alliance Counseling Center, we remain steadfast in our mission to support individuals and families in their journey toward healing and recovery.
Join Us in the Fight
We invite you to join us in spreading awareness and advocating for change during Overdose Awareness Week. Let us unite under the banner of “Together We Can” to end overdose and build a stronger, healthier community.
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#TogetherWeCan #IOAD2024 #EndOverdose
For more information on how you can get involved, or to seek help, please access the links below to be connected to SAMSHA, Pennington Institute, and White House wesbite.
Pennington Institute for International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD): https://www.overdoseday.com/
SAMSHA: https://www.samhsa.gov/newsroom/observances/overdose-awareness-week
The White House Proclamation: https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/2024/08/23/a-proclamation-on-overdose-awareness-week-2024/
“As Always Blu Specializes In You”
I am the Group Coordinator at Blu Alliance Counseling Center. I contribute to the Blu Alliance Blog where my focus is providing information about therapy in a way that is honest, and relatable. My educational background includes a BA in Psychology from Cal State Los Angeles, and an MA in Marriage and Family Therapy from Alliant International University.