Connecticut Officials Bring Attention to Addiction and Recovery Resources in Advance of International Overdose Awareness Day

August 28, 2026 Press Release Hartford, CT - In advance of International Overdose Awareness Day, which is commemorated annually on August 31, Connecticut officials reaffirmed their commitment to combating the overdose crisis and bringing attention to addiction, recovery, and overdose prevention resources available to people across Connecticut. International Overdose Awareness Day is a global campaign to end overdose, remember without stigma those who have died, and acknowledge the grief of the family and friends left behind. “Every community across our state and the nation has been touched by the opioid epidemic. As we recognize International Overdose Awareness Day, we stand together to remember those who lost their lives to addiction and recommit to investing in prevention and treatment services. I will continue to support programs in communities that connect families with the resources they need to combat substance abuse and support those in recovery,” said Congressman John B. Larson. “Today we mourn the lives lost to overdoses this year and commit to honoring them with action," said Senator Richard Blumenthal. "While Connecticut has made progress over the last few years to reduce the number of these tragic deaths, we need to dismantle the destructive grip addiction has on our communities. I will keep fighting for federal funding to support addiction prevention and recovery efforts.” “Overdose deaths are on the decline in Connecticut, but addiction and mental health issues still affect the lives of countless individuals and families across the country, including the hundreds who have died from drug overdoses in Connecticut last year," said Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro. "As the lead Democrat on the Appropriations Committee, I have proudly fought for federal investments to address this addiction crisis, including against the unconscionable cancellation of grants earlier this year. I will continue to advocate for the resources necessary for those struggling with addiction.” “Every life lost to an overdose leaves a hole in the lives of family and friends left behind. On Overdose Awareness Day, we remember those we have lost and stand with the families and communities carrying that grief. We must continue expanding access to treatment and recovery resources and ensuring that anyone struggling with addiction knows they are not alone,” said Congressman Jim Himes. “In advance of International Overdose Awareness Day, I want to acknowledge the 836 lives we’ve lost over the past year. Each one of these individuals represents a loss in our Connecticut community and an immeasurable impact on their loved ones. Through tireless efforts across the state, countless lives have been saved, but even one overdose is one too many. This fight is not over. On this day, we commit to continuing building a future where no one in the Connecticut community experiences the loss of a loved one to overdose. Our work is not done until every person living with substance use disorder has access to the support they need not just to live, but to thrive,” said Governor Ned Lamont. “On International Overdose Awareness Day, we reassert our state’s commitment to fighting the impacts of the overdose epidemic in Connecticut," said Lt. Governor Susan Bysiewicz. Today we remember those we have lost over the past year and honor their lives. For everyone living with substance use disorder, you are not alone. We see you and help is available. We will continue working towards creating a community where every person living with substance use disorder has the support they need for their journey towards recovery.” “On International Overdose Awareness Day, we remember every life taken by the opioid epidemic and recognize the toll this crisis continues to take on our communities," said Attorney General William Tong. "We also stand with those who are battling addiction and the loved ones, advocates, and providers who work tirelessly to make sure they have the support they need to recover. Connecticut has fought to hold the companies that fueled this crisis accountable, helping secure more than $50 billion nationwide, including $600 million for Connecticut, for treatment, prevention, and recovery services. No amount of money will bring back the lives that were lost, but we will continue fighting to keep other families from suffering that same loss.” “Today, we remember the people we have lost to overdose in the past year and the families and communities who continue to feel that loss," said Comptroller Sean Scanlon. "These tragedies, this epidemic, must always propel us to continue our work to combat substance use disorder in Connecticut. We must lead with compassion to face the challenge ahead and build a better tomorrow.” “International Overdose Awareness Day is an intentional recognition of the 836 lives that have been lost to overdose in Connecticut over the past year. On this day we stand with the families and communities who carry that loss and reaffirm our commitment to saving lives. DMHAS will continue to make investments in programs focused on prevention, treatment, recovery, and harm reduction. Every person living with substance use disorder is a member of our Connecticut community and deserves our support. We will continue to fight for them to receive the care and resources they need for recovery,” said Connecticut Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services Commissioner Nancy Navarretta. “International Overdose Awareness Day is a time to remember and honor every life lost to overdose, and to stand with the families, friends, and communities who continue to carry that loss. But remembrance must also inspire action," said Connecticut Department of Public Health Commissioner Manisha Juthani, M.D. "At DPH, we are committed to preventing overdose deaths through evidence-based prevention, harm reduction, strong community partnerships, and efforts to prevent substance use before it begins. We must also continue to replace stigma with compassion and understanding. Addiction is a medical condition, not a moral failing, and everyone deserves the opportunity to seek help, access treatment, and recover. Together, we can save lives and build a healthier future for Connecticut.” Connecticut has made progress in reducing fatal drug overdoses in recent years. In 2025, 836 individuals died from a drug overdose in Connecticut, representing a 45% decline from the state’s peak in 2021. The number of fatal drug overdoses has declined each year since 2021. While this progress is encouraging, the loss of 836 lives in a single year underscores that the overdose crisis remains a serious public health issue and that continued prevention, treatment, recovery, and harm reduction efforts are essential. Connecticut has dedicated significant resources toward preventing overdose, expanding access to treatment and recovery services, increasing the availability of naloxone, and reducing the stigma associated with substance use disorder. State officials and community partners continue to encourage residents to learn how to recognize and respond to an overdose, carry naloxone, and connect people struggling with addiction to treatment and recovery supports. The following resources on addiction, recovery and overdose prevention are available to everyone in Connecticut: LiveLOUD : People struggling with opioid use disorder, as well as their friends and family, can visit www.LiveLOUD.org to learn about opioid use disorder, find support and treatment options, and access resources to help prevent overdose. Connecticut Addiction Services : Anyone seeking treatment for addiction can visit www.ctaddictionservices.com or call 1-800-563-4086 , available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to find treatment and recovery services. Naloxone : Naloxone is a life-saving medication that can rapidly reverse an opioid overdose. Connecticut has expanded access to naloxone statewide, and residents are encouraged to obtain and carry it and learn how to administer it. Issues : Health Care Local