The Cyprus Addiction Treatment Authority (AAEK), in collaboration with the Municipality of Nicosia, is once again reaching out to citizens and organizations, inviting us all to come together to observe International Overdose Awareness Day.
On the evening of August 31, 2026, Eleftheria Square will be symbolically illuminated in the international color of lilac. This initiative pays tribute to those who lost their lives to overdose and sends a message of hope and support to the families who continue to grapple with their loss. It reminds us that, even 25 years after the launch of the global campaign, preventing overdose deaths remains relevant and absolutely essential.
ΣΧΕΤΙΚΑ ΑΡΘΡΑ
This year, we are expanding our efforts with additional awareness-raising activities. From 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., the “Care Zone” Mobile Harm Reduction Unit will be at Eleftherias Square. At the same time, there will be a live broadcast with Alpha Radio directly from the site from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM, featuring radio producers Kostas Karnakis & Rafaela Miltiadou, while representatives from treatment programs will be on hand to inform the public about their services and distribute relevant informational materials.
The central message remains clear and strong: overdose deaths can be prevented. At the same time, a collective effort is urgently needed to combat the stigma surrounding addiction, so that no one is left alone. According to data from the AAK, in 2024 there were 8 recorded deaths directly caused by drug use. All eight deaths were due to acute poisoning from non-opioid stimulants, primarily cocaine and amphetamine/methamphetamine.
AAEK continues to implement comprehensive prevention strategies, with an emphasis on strengthening substitution therapy programs, expanding access to naloxone, expanding harm reduction services through the Care Zone mobile unit and automated dispensing machines in all districts, as well as ongoing awareness campaigns to combat stigma. Together, we can build a society that embraces understanding, solidarity, and recovery.
We invite you to join us at Eleftherias Square. More information, instructions on prevention and the proper use of naloxone, are available on the AEK website at www.naac.org.cy, as well as through the information and assistance hotline at 1402.
Together, we can make a difference.
#25YearsStillNeeded #EndOverdose #IOAD2026
