August 31st is International Overdose Awareness Day and September is National Recovery Month. This day and the following month aim not only to honor the lives lost to overdose and reduce the stigma associated with a substance-related passing but also acknowledge the grief of the family and friends left behind.

By improving the understanding of mental and substance use disorders, this period that is being set aside will highlight that behavioral health is an essential component of overall health, treatment is effective, and people can, and do, recover. It also encourages individuals to seek help, promotes treatment and recovery resources, and pays tribute to the lives of people who are in recovery.

Throughout the country, various locations are highlighting this period by lighting up the skyline in purple. The Town of Cortlandt will be illuminating the Town of Cortlandt Youth Center in purple to commemorate the day.