August 31 is International Overdose Awareness Day. On this day, we remember lives lost to overdose and emphasize the importance of ongoing efforts and increased resources available to help prevent these tragedies.
Kristy
According to the CDC’s National Center for Health Statistics, an estimated 69,973 drug overdose deaths occurred in the United States in 2025. This is a decrease of almost 14% from the 81,313 deaths estimated in 2024. However, this number is still too high.
Easterseals PORT Health’s Community Regional Crisis Response (CR2) provides 24/7 support to individuals in Virginia facing crises due to mental health challenges and substance use disorders. CR2 provides around the clock, in-person mobile crisis response wherever individuals are located, whether at home, school, community centers, etc. Our services support people of all ages who may be at risk of hospitalization.
Kristy is an Easterseals PORT Health Registered Peer Recovery Specialist. In her role, she leverages her own lived experience in navigating substance use disorder to authentically connect, support and offer hope to others who are struggling.
“I believe it’s very important to recognize International Overdose Day because of all the lives lost,” Kristy emphasizes. “This is a treatable disorder and recovery is possible. I want to help others because someone helped me! I have been in recovery for ten years thanks to the support and help I received. It’s crucial to have human connection and feel understood during your recovery journey.”
CR2 prioritizes services focused on recovery that respect individual strengths, honor cultural differences and remain sensitive to trauma. We provide support to individuals at risk of overdose due to behavioral health challenges by supplying medication lock boxes and medication bags.
“If you are struggling with substance use disorder, seek support,” says Kristy. “You are not alone and there are many pathways to recovery. Please reach out and ask for help.”
If you or someone you know needs support in Virginia, visit eastersealsPORT.com/cr2 to learn more or call 703-527-4077 for immediate support.
ABOUT US
Easterseals PORT Health is a trustworthy, compassionate partner providing exceptional disability, mental health and substance use services to help our neighbors live their best lives. Purpose, dedication and empathy drive our in-person and telehealth service delivery. Our diverse and inclusive 2,800 member team provides more than 10.2 million hours of meaningful support to 40,200 kids, adults and families in 11,000 home, facility and community locations across North Carolina and Virginia. Learn more at eastersealsPORT.com.
