International Overdose Awareness Day
31 August
Senbazuru is the Japanese art of folding 1,000 paper cranes. It is said that if you fold 1,000 paper cranes and make a wish, it will come true.
The ATDC is calling on members of the Tasmanian community to help fold origami cranes to raise awareness and remember Tasmanians lost to overdose.
How to get involved
Fold a crane
- Display your cranes at home or in your workplace – they are a great conversation starter!
- Hold a crane folding session with friends, family, or workmates, then save the cranes to add to the artwork in your region on 31 August.
Talk about overdose
- Knowing the signs and risks of overdose is important – talking about overdose can save a life.
- Share photos of your cranes on social media #EndOverdose #OverdoseAware #IOAD2023 @OverdoseDay @atdctas
- Help us promote International Overdose Awareness Day! You can find all the resources you need right here.
Attend an event on 31 August
- On International Overdose Awareness Day on 31 August, come to an event in the North, North West or South.
- Bring your cranes (or learn to fold on the day) and add them to the art installation.
- Hear from special guest speakers to learn more, and join with the community to remember those we have lost to overdose.
Events 31 August 2023
Over ten thousand origami cranes were folded by Tasmanians in 2019 and 2020 to raise awareness of the risks of overdose, commemorating International Overdose Awareness Day.
View the mosaicFrequently asked questions
How do I make an origami crane? Click here for instructions
What can I use to make an origami crane? Origami paper is the easiest to fold, however, all you need is a flat, foldable square of any size. You can try things such as copy paper, newspaper, wrapping paper, fabric, thin plastic, cellophane or even fabric.
Where can I get origami paper?
Pick up FREE origami paper packs at the following locations: (available from 1 July 2023)
- Launceston City Mission : 48 Frederick Street, Launceston
- Tasmanian Aboriginal Centre: 198 Elizabeth Street, Hobart
- Youth, Family and Community Connections: 64 Stewart St, Devonport
- Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs council: 175 Collins Street, Hobart
- The Salvation Army: 111 Elizabeth Street, Launceston
You can buy paper from many retailers around Tasmania or online, look for stationery, art supplies or even discount stores.
What do I do with my crane? Display your crane(s) in your home or workplace to acknowledge International Overdose Awareness Day. Have you displayed your cranes in a creative way? Share your ideas with us!
Upload photos of cranes to social media using the hashtags #EndOverdose #OverdoseAware #IOAD2023 @OverdoseDay @atdctas
Bring folded cranes to your local community event on August 31.
Where are the events? Events will be held in the North, North West and South.
Follow us on Facebook or subscribe to our eNews to get the latest on community events in your area.
Tributes
How do I share a tribute? Submit a tribute to someone through the global International Overdose Awareness Campaign here.
What happened to the 2020 tributes? 2020 tributes were collated in a memorial to all those affected by overdose, and shared along with the online display of cranes on International Overdose Awareness Day Monday 31 August 2020. You can view them on our website here.
Are you looking for help and support services for alcohol, tobacco or other drugs in Tasmania?
Questions?
For more information on International Overdose Awareness Day or any of our other projects and activities, please get in touch!
Contact the ATDC