Every year on August 31, communities around the world observe International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD)—a solemn yet powerful occasion to remember lives lost to overdose, acknowledge the grief of loved ones left behind, and raise awareness about overdose prevention.

This global event shines a spotlight on the devastating impact of substance use challenges, while also breaking down stigma surrounding addiction and recovery. It’s a day to honor the resilience of those affected by addiction, celebrate the progress being made, and recommit to providing hope, support, and prevention strategies for those who need it most.

Everyone has a role to play in saving lives. IOAD reminds us that even small steps—like education, compassion, and advocacy—can make a world of difference.

The Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board (CSB) works with local partners to reduce overdose from opioids. In addition, Fairfax County provides many resources to stay informed about the current climate of opioids throughout the county.

Services Offered at the CSB

The CSB offers treatment, detoxification, and recovery supports for people struggling with substance use. Some of these services include:

• Emergency and Crisis Services

  Services 24 hours a day, seven days a week for individuals in acute distress or who need immediate help.

• Behavioral Health Outpatient and Case Management

  Services provided to empower individuals to live effectively with community support.

• Addiction Medicine Clinic

  An outpatient clinic providing treatment to reduce cravings and further use of opioids and other substances.

• Detoxification Services

  A short-term residential program to help safely withdrawal from the effects of drugs and alcohol.

• Residential Treatment

  Comprehensive services with 24-hour supervision, including individual and group therapy, psychiatric services, medication management, case management, and continuing care services to help transition back to the community.

How to Take Action

• Learn and Share – The International Overdose Awareness Day website has information about overdose and prevention resources. Check out this information and start a conversation with someone in your community.

• Carry or Use Naloxone (Narcan) – Learn how to use Naloxone, a life-saving medication that reverses opioid overdoses—and keep it on hand.

• Take a Class – The Wellness Health Promotion and Prevention programs and initiatives provide several opportunities to gain skills that could help save a life. Get started, register for an Opioid Overdose & Naloxone Education (REVIVE! Kit) Training or Mental Health First Aid class.

• Wear Purple – Did you know that purple was selected as the official color for Recovery Month (September) as well as International Overdose Awareness Day? Wear purple on August 31st to show your commitment and support.

Join the Movement to Save Lives

As we commemorate International Overdose Awareness Day, let us commit to turning awareness into action.

Preventing overdose starts with education, compassion, and access to care. Whether it’s learning how to administer Narcan, sharing information about local resources, or simply extending kindness to those in need, we all have the power to make a difference.

On this day and every day, let’s create a community where recovery is always possible. Together, we can save lives.

To Access CSB Services

• For CSB Non-Emergency Behavioral Health Services, call CSB Entry & Referral at 703-383-8500 TTY 771, Monday-Thursday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and Friday, 10:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. You may also walk-in at the Sharon Bulova Center for Community Health Monday-Thursday 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., and Friday 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

• For emergency mental health or substance use services, walk-in services are available 24/7 at the Sharon Bulova Center for Community Health or call 703-573-5679 TTY 711.

• If someone with a developmental disability is experiencing a mental health or substance abuse crisis, call REACH, a 24/7 regional crisis stabilization and crisis prevention service for children, youth and adults with developmental disabilities, at 855-897-8278.

• If you or someone you know is experiencing a substance use crisis, call the Fairfax Detoxification Center 24/7 at 703-502-7000, TTY 703-322-9080.