International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD)
International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD), observed annually on August 31, serves as a pivotal moment to reflect on the profound impacts of drug overdose globally. It’s a day dedicated to remembering those who have lost their lives due to overdose, acknowledging the grief of families and friends left to bear the loss, and reinforcing the global commitment to prevent such tragedies through awareness and education.
At Sree Abirami College of Pharmacy in Coimbatore, this significant day was marked by a well-attended event organized by Dr. B. Premkumar, the Head of the Department of Pharmaceutics. The gathering aimed not only to memorialize victims but also to foster a community of support and recovery for those affected by substance misuse.
The seminar hall of SACOP resonated with the voices of hopeful change as it welcomed around 200 students to participate in the day’s proceedings, which began at 10:30 AM with a solemn prayer song performed by students from the third year of the Bachelor of Pharmacy program. The ambiance was one of respectful attention and readiness to engage with the critical issues at hand.
Ms. M. L. Indumathi, Assistant Professor at the college, extended a warm welcome to all attendees, setting a tone of inclusivity and urgency for the discussion to follow. The event was graced by Dr. S. Thesni Pasha, a clinical pharmacist from Royal Care Multispeciality Hospital, who served as the Chief Guest. Her extensive experience and insights into pharmacological safety provided a rich foundation for the day’s theme.
Dr. Pasha took the stage to illuminate the importance of International Overdose Awareness Day, delving into the societal hazards posed by improper drug use and the critical importance of dosage regulation. Her presentation highlighted the often-overlooked repercussions of drug overdose, including long-term health complications and the emotional and economic burden on families and communities.
The interactive session that followed was particularly engaging, with students eagerly discussing the potential drawbacks of drug misuse. This interaction underscored the event’s educational goal, as students clarified their doubts and gained a deeper understanding of the subject matter through real-world examples and expert explanations.
The contributions of Dr. Pasha were formally recognized when she was felicitated with a memento by Dr. B. Premkumar, symbolizing appreciation for her invaluable contribution to raising awareness about overdose risks. The event concluded on a note of gratitude, with Dr. R. Dileep from the Department of Pharmaceutics delivering a heartfelt vote of thanks to all the participants and organizers. The national anthem, echoing through the seminar hall, provided a fitting end to a day dedicated to remembrance and educational resolve.
Overall, the observance of International Overdose Awareness Day at Sree Abirami College of Pharmacy not only paid homage to those affected by drug overdose but also reinforced the community’s role in combating the epidemic through education and awareness. It was a day marked by somber remembrance and proactive learning, contributing to the global dialogue on overdose prevention and offering hope for a future where such tragedies are increasingly rare.
