Together we can

Today is International Overdose Awareness Day.

Every year, hundreds of thousands of people around the world lose their lives to overdose.

The impact of overdose reaches far beyond statistics — it leaves families, friends, and entire communities grieving.

Today, the team at Maryborough District Health Service (MDHS) stand with those who have lost loved ones and acknowledge the deep pain felt by those left behind.

Overdose doesn’t discriminate. It can happen to anyone — a friend, a colleague, or a neighbour.

The tragedy of overdose is not only heartbreaking but preventable. Raising awareness, educating ourselves, and supporting one another can save lives. We can all be part of this change.

This International Overdose Awareness Day, we can:

• Remember – Honour the lives of those we’ve lost to overdose. They were more than their struggle—they were loved and valued.
• Break the stigma – Drug-related deaths often carry a heavy stigma that prevents open conversation. By speaking openly, we can challenge misconceptions and support those who need it.
• Educate – Understand the risks of drug use, recognise the signs of an overdose, and know how to respond.  These are crucial steps in prevention and can make the difference between life and death.

You can also make a difference by sharing resources, talking to those around you about overdose prevention, and supporting those who are grieving.

Every conversation helps to break down barriers and spread life-saving knowledge.

If you or someone you know needs support, please reach out.

Resources to help with prevention, education, and emotional support are available.

Here at MDHS, we offer a range of alcohol and other drugs services including counselling, assessment and withdrawal support services, as well as treatment for Hepatitis C and opioid substitution.

We also offer counselling and social work to help individuals, families and groups identify and deal with challenges such as loss, grief, relationships, mental health, inequality or injustice.

For more information or to book an appointment call 5461 0333, or you can complete a self-referral form via community services.

Together, we can prevent the tragedy of overdose and support those affected in our community.

Let’s remember those we’ve lost, act to save lives and stand united in the fight against overdose.

Together we can.