Black Balloon Day

By Bees | March 6, 2023

image of black balloon to honor those who died of SUD-related overdoses

March 6th is National Black Balloon Day

Instead of donning that shell pink cashmere off the shoulder number, consider wearing black. Today is National Black Balloon, a day dedicated to honoring the lives of those lost to problematic substance use. Every year, people around the country come together to remember those who have been lost to substance misuse and support those affected by it.

Black Balloon Day also offers an opportunity to bring awareness to the alarming increase in US-based overdose deaths.

 

WARNING: Text contains sensitive content

America, We Have a Problem

According to the National Center for Drug Abuse Statistics:

  • Drug overdose deaths are up 30% year-over-year.
  • US-based OD death rate increased 256% between 2000 and 2019.
  • 1 million people have been killed by drug overdoses since 1999.
  • Drug overdose is the leading cause of accidental death in the United States
  • In January 2021, drug overdose deaths exceeded homicides by 306.7%.

What Can We Do?

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) outlines ways that you can help.

  • Learn about naloxone, a lifesaving drug that can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose when administered in time.
  • Ask your doctor or pharmacist for a naloxone prescription or get naloxone from local organizations if you or a loved one uses illicit drugs, has substance use disorder, takes high-dose prescription opioids, or has other risk factors for opioid overdose.
  • Read and share resources about overdose prevention and raise awareness about the communities that are disproportionately impacted by overdose.
  • Learn more about reducing stigma which can be a major barrier to getting help.

LifeRing is dedicated to supporting all people seeking support to overcome substance use challenges. We are also there for those who survive those who lost the fight. To all our LifeRing Community Members who have lost someone to substance use-related death, we wish you strength and comfort.

Related LifeRing online support focus meetings

The Lost Ones | Sundays at 9:00pm Pacific Time
For those who have lost a loved one

Family and Friends | Sundays at 12:00pm Pacific
For those with loved ones in recovery

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