August is Overdose Awareness Month

In 2023, there were over 1,800 drug overdose deaths in Colorado, 59% of which resulted from illegally manufactured fentanyl. This is approximately five deaths per day on average.

  • This is more than the number of people killed in homicides in Colorado in 2021, 2022, and 2023 combined (1,146).

  • In 2023, 1,822 people in Colorado died of a drug overdose, according to provisional state data.

  • Colorado saw a slight uptick in 2023 in overdose deaths from the year prior, approximately 23 more people died that year than in 2022, according to provisional state data, which is subject to change. However, Denver saw 522 fatal drug overdoses last year, a 15 percent increase from 2022 and a record high, according to Axios. 

  • The sharp increase in overdose deaths in Denver was fueled by fentanyl, the powerful synthetic opioid that is often used in pill or powdered form. Overdose deaths from fentanyl have been on the rise for years but notably increased 17 percent between 2022 and 2023 across the state. 

Overdose Awareness Month is a crucial time to raise awareness about the opioid crisis and the importance of harm reduction strategies. Throughout August, we come together to:

  • Provide an opportunity for people to publicly mourn loved ones

  • Send a strong message to people who use drugs and people in recovery that they are valued

  • Inform people around the world about the risk of drug overdose

  • Provide basic information on the range of support services that are available

  • Prevent and reduce drug-related harm by supporting evidence-based practice

You can play a vital role in saving lives and fostering a safer community by actively participating in our events and accessing free resources like speaking to a peer, obtaining naloxone, and using fentanyl test strips. Join us in this meaningful movement as we strive to make a difference, empower individuals, and build a future where compassion and understanding prevail. Together, we can create positive change and ensure that no one walks this journey alone.

Bee prepared. Prevent overdoses.

Naloxone can reverse an overdose from opioids, including heroin, illicitly manufactured fentanyl and fentanyl analogs, and prescription opioid medications. Often given as a nasal spray, naloxone is safe and easy to use (click here to learn how).

You should carry naloxone if

  • You or someone you know is at increased risk for opioid overdose, especially those with opioid use disorder (OUD).

  • You or someone you know are taking high-dose opioid medications prescribed by a doctor.

  • You or someone you know have both opioid and benzodiazepines prescriptions, or use illicit substances like heroin or fentanyl.

  • You want to help keep your community safer by being prepared to respond to overdoses in the event of an emergency

Unsure of your supply? Check the Vibe!

If you or someone you know uses drugs, including cocaine, MDMA, and ecstasy, it’s important to use fentanyl testing strips on your party supplies to ensure they are safe for use, and lower your chance of overdose. Find a time to meet up with a member of our Bee the Vibe team to pick up FREE fentanyl testing strips before your next *trip*.