Madison VA Hospital & Clinics

This International Overdose Awareness Day (August 31), the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is raising awareness of overdose prevention and connecting Veterans, families and communities with resources that can save lives. Today at VA, there are more options than ever to help prevent overdose and support Veterans’ recovery from substance use disorder.  

While International Overdose Awareness Day brings important attention to these services, VA offers lifesaving resources and treatments all year long. VA’s substance use treatment options help Veterans reduce risk, access care, and take steps toward improved health and a better quality of life. Whether you’re seeking care for the first time, returning to treatment, or supporting a loved one, resources are available and recovery is possible.  

This International Overdose Awareness Day, explore the support that’s available and learn how to access it: 

• Naloxone is a medication designed to rapidly reverse an opioid overdose. VA provides it for free. Knowing how to use this medication could save a life. In fact, since VA started making naloxone available nationally to Veterans, it has documented more than 7,700 overdose reversals with this medication. Learn how to get naloxone at VA or in your community and find out how to administer it. 

• Evidence-based treatments are treatments supported by research that may include therapies, medication, or both. Treatments are available at your local VA medical center or clinic. In addition, assessment and treatment referral services are available at Vet Centers.   

• VA residential rehabilitation treatment, also known as inpatient or domiciliary care, provides comprehensive treatment and rehabilitation services to Veterans with substance use disorders and other mental health conditions.    

• VA’s Alcohol and Drug Education is a free online course that highlights the effects of these substances on the mind and body. The course helps Veterans make informed decisions about substance use and provides proven tools and strategies to enable positive changes. 

You can also download and share ready-to-use materials that highlight International Overdose Awareness Day and VA resources. No matter what you’re experiencing, recovery is possible.