International Overdose Awareness Day

[1] Its purpose is to raise awareness of overdoses, reduce the stigma of drug-related deaths and acknowledge the grief felt by families and friends.

[2] The first day, held in 2001 in Australia,[3] saw 6,000 silver ribbons distributed across the country and into New Zealand.

[4] The silver ribbon and the colour purple are representative symbols of the International Overdose Awareness Day.

Finn, then managing a needle and syringe program at the Salvation Army Crisis Centre in St Kilda, Victoria.

International Overdose Awareness Day badges and wristbands depicting the silver ribbon are produced and distributed to local groups globally.