(Washington, DC) – The Bowser Administration is recognizing International Overdose Awareness Day with a series of events aimed at honoring lives lost to substance use while promoting tools for prevention and recovery. Led by the DC Department of Behavioral Health (DBH), the administration highlighted the distribution of over 510,000 free naloxone kits-an essential medication that can quickly reverse an opioid overdose while emergency services are being called.
“Overdose is preventable. Every single naloxone kit represents a life at risk as well as a second chance,” said Barbara J. Bazron, PhD, Director of DBH. According to DBH, naloxone has helped reverse approximately 21,000 suspected overdoses, with kits available at over 100 community organizations, faith-based groups, and 30 pharmacies across all eight wards in the District. Residents can text “LiveLongDC” to 888-811 to receive naloxone at no charge.
Encouragingly, the District has seen a 30% decrease in both fatal and non-fatal overdoses compared to last year, attributed to a comprehensive approach that includes evidence-based prevention, treatment, and recovery services. Director Bazron stated, “Our goal remains to end overdose and make treatment available to anyone who is ready. Today, thousands of District residents are living addiction-free with the right treatment and supports.”
Throughout the week, DBH has engaged in various Overdose Awareness Day events, including outreach efforts at Starburst Plaza, where teams distributed naloxone and provided HIV testing. Additional activities today include community conversations, trainings, and a Spanish-language film screening discussing the dangers of counterfeit pills. A full list of events can be found on the LIVE.LONG.DC. website.
For those seeking treatment, DBH offers tailored services, including a 24/7 stabilization center for adults in crisis, access to medications in emergency departments, and support from peer coaches. Residents can reach out for help by texting “Ready” to 888-811 or visiting one of the designated treatment locations. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, support is available by calling or texting 988 to connect with a trained counselor.
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