August 01, 2026
WHEREAS, International Overdose Awareness Day is recognized globally on August 31 to raise awareness about the risks of overdose, honor the individuals whose lives have been lost, and acknowledge the grief felt by families, friends, and the community; and,
WHEREAS, Overdose Awareness Day aims to publicly challenge the stigma associated with substance use disorders and overdose; and,
WHEREAS, in 2024, 1,877 individuals died from a drug overdose in Michigan, representing 18.5 deaths per 100,000 residents. Preliminary data showed fewer than 1,800 deaths in 2025, a continued decrease from 2024; and,
WHEREAS, in 2024 naloxone administrations were 10.5 per 1,000 patient encounters according to Emergency Medical Services. Naloxone continues to be an important necessity for first responders, emergency personnel, family, friends, and non-EMS professions; and,
WHEREAS, in 2023, the rate of fatal drug overdoses among Black, non-Hispanic residents was nearly three times as high as white, non-Hispanic residents. Black residents also experienced a higher rate of drug overdoses resulting in emergency department visits; and,
WHEREAS, in 2023, nearly 1.8 million people in Michigan, ages 12 and older, had used an illicit drug in the past month; and,
WHEREAS, today, we join with the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services and various community networks to provide an opportunity for people to publicly mourn for loved ones without feeling guilt or shame and send a message of caring and support to those suffering from a substance use disorder;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, and Garlin Gilchrist II, lieutenant governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim August 31, 2026, as Overdose Awareness Day in Michigan.
