MCHD observes International Overdose Awareness Day 08.29.25
August 29, 2025
MCHD observes International Overdose Awareness Day
MOBILE, Ala. — August 31 marks International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD), a global campaign to end overdose. It is a time to remember those who have died from drug overdose and call for action to prevent further deaths. The theme for 2025 is “One big family.”
“Today, opioid misuse is an epidemic in the United States and contributes to the death of nearly 70,000 people each year,” said Dr. Kevin Michaels, Health Officer for Mobile County.
“Some people have a higher risk for opioid addiction than others. If you or a loved one is struggling with opioid use, help is available. Explore our resources below to start your recovery journey or learn how to offer support.”
In May, the mental well-being platform called CredibleMind became available to Alabama residents. It is being offered thanks to a partnership with the Alabama Department of Public Health, Alabama Department of Mental Health, Jefferson County Department of Health, and Mobile County Health Department.
Dr. Michaels said IOAD is exactly the type of situation where the CredibleMind app can be useful. To learn more, visit https://alabama.crediblemind.com/topics/opioid-use.
MCHD’s Overdose Prevention Program has also provided five harm-reduction kiosks across the community to offer free naloxone kits. More well known by one of its brand names, Narcan, it is an easy-to-use nasal spray that works to reverse opioid overdoses.
The kiosks are located at B-Bob’s Bar (213 Conti Street in Mobile), Vista Medical (1359 Spring Hill Avenue in Mobile), Shell Health (4321 Downtowner Loop North in Mobile), Semmes Pharmacy (8985 Moffett Road in Semmes) and MCHD’s Women, Infants & Children (WIC) office at 19255 North Main Street in Citronelle.
“Jefferson County Department of Health continues to provide training and Narcan products to Alabama residents,” Dr. Michaels said. “Narcan/naloxone is now available over-the-counter at many local pharmacies.”