As Connecticut prepares to commemorate International Overdose Awareness Day on August 31, Governor Ned Lamont and state officials are highlighting addiction and recovery resources while reaffirming their commitment to addressing the opioid crisis.

Governor Lamont stated, “While recent statistics have shown a slight decline in overdose deaths over the last year, the 990 individuals we lost in 2024 is far too many of our family, friends, and loved ones to take a victory lap or celebrate when there is still so much more work to do. We are at an inflection point in this crisis, and I have confidence that the investments being made by the Opioid Settlement Advisory Committee and state and federal resources will continue to reduce deaths and provide a path to treatment and recovery supports.”

International Overdose Awareness Day is a global campaign to end overdose, eliminate stigma, and support families grieving loved ones lost to substance use. In Connecticut, efforts like the Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services’ LiveLOUD campaign provide outreach through social media, radio, transit, and billboard ads targeting individuals who use fentanyl, heroin, or prescription opioids.

LiveLOUD offers information, treatment connections, and partnership opportunities at www.LiveLOUD.org. Additional statewide treatment services are available at www.ctaddictionservices.com or by calling 1-800-563-4086, 24/7.