A True Health Approach to the Overdose Crisis Prioritizes Support, not Handcuffs

Blog November 11, 2024

New reports are celebrating a nearly 15% decrease in overdose deaths in the U.S. between June 2023 and June 2024 compared to the same period the year before, according to preliminary data. But nearly 100,000 people still die of overdose every year. These are our loved ones: our families, our neighbors, and our friends.

Overdose deaths are preventable, but criminalization is standing in the way of saving lives. Criminalization creates instability, blocks access to jobs and housing, and increases overdose risk. Effective solutions center support, not punishment.

Our Executive Director Kassandra Frederique interviews              Dr. Kim Sue, addiction medicine physician and Assistant Professor of Medicine at Yale School of Medicine.

Learn more about why we need a health approach to overdose and how you can help save lives at drugpolicy.org/overdose.

A young woman holds a sign that says "End the Drug War."

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