UBC ams

International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD)

Office of Vice President Academic & University Affairs

August, 31, 2022

Drug overdose is one of the world’s worst public health crises. August 31st is recognized as International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD). Raising awareness of the global overdose crisis also means encouraging harm reduction policies and practices in our personal community.

In BC, more than 9,000 people have died of overdose since the province declared a public health emergency in April 2016. Drug toxicity is the leading cause of death in the province for people between the ages of 19 and 39.

This year on International Overdose Awareness Day, the AMS would like to recognize and mourn the lives lost in this crisis, and repeat our commitment to improving harm reduction efforts on campus and in the UBC community as a whole. We would also like to thank the various student groups that have mobilized to do this work over the years.

To find an event near you please visit the International Overdose Awareness Day website. We also suggest visiting the social media channels of harm reduction organizations for more information on events happening in Vancouver, like this page by Moms Stop The Harm.

  • Here are some harm reduction resources available to UBC students:
    If you need support, the UBC Student Recovery Community is a safe, welcoming, and inclusive space for students who are in recovery or curious to explore their relationship with alcohol, drugs, and/or other addictive behaviours.
  • Free fentanyl test trips are available for anonymous pick up in the AMS Nest at SASC (Room 3130); AMS Peer Support (Room 3125); and at the AMS Resource Groups Lobby on the second floor. Strips are also available in the Life Building at the UBC Wellness Centre (Room 1400) and Nurse on Campus booths offer both strips and demonstrations.
  • Naloxone kits are available for free at AMS SASC and UBC Student Health Services, along with naloxone training. If naloxone is needed immediately training is available on NaloxoneTraining. com and can be picked up at any BC Pharmacy – including the ones on campus.
  • GetYourDrugsTested.com offers both in-person and mail-in anonymous drug testing services. Visit their website or contact them at info@getyourdrugstested.com for more information and instructions on how to send substances.

For more information on harm reduction resources, visit this page by UBC Wellbeing.

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