Yap State recognizes August 31 as International Overdose Awareness Day

Monday, August 31, 2026 /// DYCA PIO

Yap FM - Earlier today, August 31st, Yap State joined communities around the world in recognizing International Overdose Awareness Day, observed annually on August 31, by taking part in the “Light Up Purple” initiative.

The observance was first introduced in Yap State through the Behavioral Health and Wellness Program under the Department of Health Services. As part of this year’s recognition, community members are encouraged to show their support by wearing purple, using purple accessories, or displaying purple items and decorations at their homes, workplaces, and other community spaces.

International Overdose Awareness Day provides an opportunity to remember and honor people who have lost their lives to overdose, while also recognizing the grief experienced by their families, friends, and communities.

The day also highlights the importance of supporting individuals affected by substance use and those in recovery. It serves as a reminder that overdose can affect people from all walks of life and continues to impact families and communities around the world.

Purple is the official color associated with International Overdose Awareness Day and symbolizes remembrance, recovery, and solidarity.

For Yap State, the “Light Up Purple” observance is also an opportunity to encourage greater awareness and understanding of substance use and overdose prevention. While overdose may not always be openly discussed or recognized as an issue within a community, raising awareness can help people become better informed and more prepared to respond.

Through education, open conversations, community support, and prevention efforts, individuals and communities can work together to reduce the risks associated with overdose and provide support to those affected.

As Yap State observes International Overdose Awareness Day, residents are encouraged to wear purple and display purple in their homes and workplaces as a visible expression of remembrance, hope, recovery, and solidarity.

Light Up Purple. Raise Awareness. Support Recovery. Save Lives.

(For more information, please contact the Department of Health Services at 350-2110)