There were over 90,000 overdose deaths in the U.S. in the 12-month period ending January 2021—an unprecedented increase of nearly 30%.

There are several ways to reduce overdose deaths, collectively referred to as Harm Reduction. However, stigma around persons who use substances reduces community acceptance of these strategies. International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD) was started in 2001 and aims to raise awareness about the risks of overdose, educate persons on how to intervene when witnessing an overdose, and offer family members and communities a space to honor—without stigma—their loved ones who have died from overdose.

This year, for IOAD, the College of Public Health has assembled a diverse panel who will speak on:

• How the overdose crisis has affected the North Philadelphia community
• Substance use stigma and its impact on overdose prevention
• The signs of overdose and how to respond
• How medical amnesty can protect Temple students who report substance use-related emergencies

Speakers:

• Clayton Ruley, director of community engagement and volunteer services, Prevention Point Philadelphia
• Katherine Zuk, social and behavioral sciences graduate student and teaching assistant, Temple University
• James J. Graham III, DO, medical director, Crisis Response Center and associate professor of psychiatry, Temple University
• Megan M. Patrick, EdD, assistant dean, Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards, Temple University

Moderators:

• Deirdre Dingman, DrPH, MPH, CHES, assistant professor of social and behavioral sciences, Temple University
• Kate Gallagher, director of community-based learning, Office of Community-Engaged Research and Practice, Temple University

Register to receive the link to connect: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/international-overdose-awareness-day-panel-...