NEWS RELEASE – JUNE 14, 2024
The PREVENTION COALITION OF MONMOUTH COUNTY, an affiliate of PBHG, has organized this campaign since 2020.
EATONTOWN—With August 31st marking International Overdose Awareness Day, Preferred Behavioral Health Group and the Prevention Coalition of Monmouth County have partnered with local municipalities, organizations, businesses, and individuals to host purple flag displays, in an effort to honor lives lost to overdose in Monmouth County.
“In honor of International Overdose Awareness Day, it’s critical we remember those who tragically lost their lives to an overdose, raise awareness of this epidemic, and end the stigma surrounding addiction,” said Dr. Tara Chalakani, CEO of Preferred Behavioral Health Group. “Together, we are determined to end this public health crisis and eliminate these preventable deaths through education and community-driven resources for individuals and who families who need them.”
According to the state of New Jersey’s Attorney General’s office, New Jersey has lost 865 individuals due to drug related deaths from January 1 to May 31, 2024. In 2023, Monmouth County lost 135 persons due to overdose. As of March 31, 2024, Monmouth County has lost 27 persons due to overdose.
For the past four years, the Prevention Coalition of Monmouth County’s Opioid Task Force have worked together to provide a visually impactful display to raise awareness, end the stigma and, just as importantly, honor those whose lives have been lost and celebrate those in recovery. Last year 51 municipalities and multiple businesses participated in this important campaign. This year, PBHG and PCMC hope to expand these efforts county-wide to include all municipalities.
The display consists of 27 purple flags that each represent one life lost to overdose in Monmouth County from January 1, 2024 – March 31, 2024, two (2) signs that explain the display, and two (2) white flags that represent all individuals who lost their lives to an overdose throughout 2023. Each participating municipality and business will be displayed on PBHG and PCMC’s social media platforms.
ABOUT PBHG:
Preferred Behavioral Health Group (PBHG) is at the forefront of behavioral healthcare in New Jersey, offering comprehensive services since 1978. Committed to fostering healing and hope, PBHG provides top-tier mental health, substance use, and prevention services with a focus on trauma-informed care and inclusivity. With a dedication to innovation and personalized care, PBHG empowers individuals, families, and communities to embrace well-being and attain optimal mental wellness. Explore PBHG’s transformative programs and services, grounded in trauma-informed care practices, at preferredbehavioral.org.
#####
