Dear Friend of the APT Foundation, 

International Overdose Awareness Day is August 31st. Today, we stand in solidarity with all who have lost friends and family to the devastating consequences of opioid and substance use disorders or suffer permanent injuries from an overdose. 

We believe that if policymakers and the community as a whole could truly see the scope of the problem, there would be much greater urgency in committing resources to preventing overdose deaths and injuries in the United States. Consider the following:

  • In the years between 1999 and 2019, opioid overdose deaths increased SIX TIMES.
  • Deaths from synthetic opioids other than methadone alone increased from 730 in 1999 to a staggering 36,400 in 2019.
  • A total of 841,000 people died from opioid overdoses in the US during those decades. 

These are real human beings with lives, friends and families. Everybody knows somebody who has been affected. 

Keep in mind that for every overdose fatality, 30 adverse events occur and often go unreported. This is not just a public health issue but a social justice issue. In less than 30 years, the U.S. penal population exploded from around 300,000 to more than 2 million, with drug convictions accounting for the majority of the increase. The Covid-19 pandemic has increased social isolation and had a disproportionate impact on the vulnerable populations we serve. 

APT’s Open Access Model has been scientifically studied and proven to be efficacious. We provide real-time access to multiple voluntary treatment options, and most people start treatment the same day as they receive an evaluation, regardless of ability to pay. To adapt to pandemic realities, in 2020-21 we offered expanded take-homes and telehealth visits. 

We recently rebuilt our website to focus on access to care and reducing harm. Please check out the sections providing Resources for Self-Care and Resources for Friends and Family. 

We are here to help!

Sincerely, 

Lynn Madden, PhD, MPA

CEO & President

PS: A vigil will take place on the New Haven Green this afternoon, along with public education, Narcan distribution, a film screening, and other activities from 12-6pm.