DPH, BHDD Recognize International Overdose Awareness Day, Call for Action to Prevent Overdoses

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Aug. 31, 2026

COLUMBIA, S.C. – The South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) and the South Carolina Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities (BHDD) are observing International Overdose Awareness Day on Aug. 31 by remembering the lives lost to overdoses and emphasizing the importance of community efforts to address the opioid overdose epidemic.

Each year, DPH’s Drug Overdose Deaths Report provides data and information about the fatal drug overdose deaths that occur in the state. In 2024, the most recent year for which complete data is available, there were 1,481 drug overdose deaths in South Carolina, a 31.3% decrease from the 2,157 drug overdose deaths in 2023.

Between 2023 and 2024, most of South Carolina’s 46 counties experienced a decline in overdose deaths, reflecting progress across much of the state. Several counties, including Aiken, Colleton, Georgetown, Jasper, and Spartanburg, recorded significant reductions of 50% or more, demonstrating the impact of expanded prevention and response efforts.

“We’re encouraged to see overdose deaths declining, a sign that statewide prevention efforts are making a real difference, but even one life lost is too many,” said Dr. Brannon Traxler, acting DPH director. “DPH and its partners remain fully committed to prevention, treatment, and recovery initiatives that will help us build a safer, healthier future for everyone in South Carolina.”

Despite the decline in overdose deaths across the state, the synthetic opioid fentanyl remains the leading contributor to overdose fatalities in South Carolina. In 2024, fentanyl was involved in 914 of the state’s 1,481 overdose deaths, underscoring the ongoing need for widespread naloxone access and continued community-level prevention initiatives.

DPH continues its work to enhance access to tools aimed at preventing overdoses. Opioid Overdose (OD) Safety Kits are available at DPH health departments across the state at no cost. Each kit contains two doses of naloxone, five fentanyl test strips, five xylazine test strips, educational materials on how to use everything included and guidance for how to identify an opioid overdose. Kits are available in English and Spanish.

Naloxone, when administered in time, can reverse the effects of overdose from opioids (oxycodone, hydrocodone, morphine, fentanyl and others) and heroin. It is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and does not cause any harm if administered to someone not experiencing an opioid overdose. Naloxone can be obtained as a nasal spray product and does not require a prescription.

For people living with substance use disorders, addressing the underlying issues and obtaining professional help can significantly impact their recovery. Effective treatment options, such as therapy, medications, and support groups, provide hope and practical methods to avoid future overdoses.  

“Today is about remembering those we have lost to overdose and honoring the families touched by these tragedies,” said Sara Goldsby, director of BHDD’s Office of Substance Use Services. “While overdose deaths are declining, we are still losing twice as many South Carolinians as we did a decade ago. As communities across the state gather to remember these lives, our work to treat addiction like any other chronic disease must continue year-round.”

Remember, asking for help is a courageous step toward healing, and numerous resources are available to support you throughout your recovery journey.

For more information on local resources, South Carolina data, and support services, visit DPH’s Opioid Epidemic webpage, embracerecoverysc.com or justplainkillers.com or call the Statewide Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).

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