The loss of family members to opioid overdose death continues to be prevalent in communities across the United States. "Despite recent trends that reported deaths are decreasing, an overwhelming number of Americans continue to lose their lives each year. The impact on parents, siblings, spouses, and children will ripple through future generations. Family members experience these losses in numerous ways depending on the relationship they had with the deceased and can result in discord and mutual blame after overdose. The stigma of unintentional overdose death may cause intense shame and secrecy along with a multitude of various emotions that may slow the process of healing and acceptance of loss. According to recent literature extended family and friends often offer less support than to those who die from natural causes and therefore may project onto the family members that they are somehow less deserving of sympathy and tend to blame the deceased for the family's distress. Critical comments and social avoidance can increase the burden and isolation on families and illuminate the secrecy and shame experienced.