Yesterday was the 5th annual Knock Out Opioid Abuse Day. New Jersey legislators and Governor Murphy designated October 6th as a permanent day of prevention education and awareness that shines a light on the opioid crisis impacting thousands of New Jersey residents and families. 

In past years, thousands of residents would blanket their community, workplace and schools with prevention education resources. Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, this year’s event was entirely virtual. However, we are pleased to report (while still tabulating) it appears that over 10,000 residents shared information and resources via email or social media.

All of us at the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey (PDFNJ) are thrilled by the way individuals, organizations, and communities came together to share information and raise awareness about the dangers associated with opioids. The goal of Knock Out Opioid Abuse Day is to raise awareness about the link between prescribed opioids, heroin, and fentanyl. This year’s virtual Knock Out Day accomplished this and so much more.

Social media was alive with posts, tweets, and shared information across Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Organizations throughout the state pledged their support of Knock Out Opioid Abuse Day and showcased ways they are working to raise awareness of Knock Out Opioid Abuse Day. A special thanks to Governor Murphy and New Jersey Attorney General Grewal for sharing Knock Out Opioid Abuse Day messages on their social media pages.

Although Knock Out Day is officially October 6th, we still encourage you to share these important messages about the dangers of opioids throughout the month. Additionally, the Knock Out Opioid Abuse Day learning series will continue throughout the fall. Be sure to sign up for the Bayshore Town Hall Webinar tomorrow at 7 p.m. tomorrow. Please visit the Knock Out Opioid Abuse Day website for additional webinars coming up:

· October 13th -  A Primer on Opioid Addiction, Overdose Management, and Medication Assisted Treatment

· November 19th - Pharmacists: On the Front Line of the Opioid Crisis During the COVID Pandemic

Stay well.