Today is a day to remember loved ones lost to drug overdose and the friends and family left behind. The hurt can be overwhelming, making you feel like you are suffocating. Understanding substance use is hard, and losing a loved one is heartbreaking. The grief can come and go, but the pain can last for years and decades after the loss.
Substance use disorder (SUD) is a chronic condition. Much like other chronic conditions, for example heart disease and type 2 diabetes, SUD develops over time as a result of many contributing factors of the individual’s social environment, genetics, mental and emotional stressors, and lifestyle.
On International Overdose Awareness Day, August 31, let us remember…
- No one chooses to have a chronic disease
- Losing a loved one hurts, no matter the cause
- Overdose is preventable
Trumbull County Strong is hosting an event today to support those struggling with the loss of loved ones. Please join them and our own Su-Qin Olmstead and Rachel Alltop to share thoughts, feelings and create awareness for ways to turn pain into purpose.
