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International Overdose Awareness Day Statement from Assistant Secretary for Mental Health and Substance Use Miriam E. Delphin-Rittmon, Ph.D.

Tuesday, August 31, 2021

Today, on International Overdose Awareness Day, SAMHSA mourns with the families and friends who have lost loved ones to overdose, and we renew our commitment to preventing these tragic deaths.

We cannot allow the substance use crisis to continue consuming American communities, families, and individuals. Addiction is an illness, and like any other illness, it requires access to evidence-based prevention, intervention, treatment and recovery services and supports. The more we do to equip communities across the country to prevent fatal overdoses, the more opportunities our loved ones will have to pursue treatment and experience long-term recovery.

Prevention works, help is available, and recovery is possible for everyone. The Biden Administration is committed to providing the funding, guidance, and resources needed to address the addiction crisis in America. The American Rescue Plan increases in funding allocations toward treatment and prevention grants, ability to spend federal funding on harm reduction strategies like fentanyl test strips, new mobile methadone rule, and new buprenorphine practice guidelines are only the beginning of our unrelenting efforts to enhance and expand treatment and support services for those who need them, wherever and whenever they need them.

Together, we can provide the resources and support networks needed to save lives in all communities across America, including those who have experienced longstanding inequities. The call to action has never been louder than it is today. We will continue to do all that is within our power to help people pursue the rewarding road to recovery and wellness.

To find substance use disorder treatment options near you, visit findtreatment.gov or call 800-662-HELP (4357).

Last Updated: 08/31/2021