St. Joseph Health Department holds International Overdose Awareness event

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) -- The City of St. Joseph Health Department held an International Overdose Awareness Day event to recognize loved ones lost to overdose.

According to the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, the highest overdose death rate in Missouri within the past four years was in 2022, with 2,180 overdose-related deaths. That number decreased to 1,948 deaths in 2023, according to the most recent report.

"We attribute that to naloxone being readily available through the health department," Health Educator Stephanie Malita said. "Along with other agencies here in town, (like) the treatment and recovery centers, the libraries, the City of St. Joseph, and the Health Department. We all have naloxone available for people to take."

The event started with an International Overdose Awareness Day Proclamation and closed with a prayer and a circle of light to honor loved ones who were lost to overdose.

The event also featured an Open Mic for attendees to remember their loved ones and to share hope and inspiration that recovery is possible.

Educational booths, memorial rock painting, free International Overdose Awareness merchandise, Naloxone and tuition assistance in pursuing a career as a Certified Peer Specialist were also part of the celebration.