Tennessee has the third-highest overdose death rate in the United States, with 56 deaths per 100,000 people. According to the Tennessee Department of Health, the state lost 3,616 citizens to drug overdose in 2023.
Across the state, local substance use prevention coalitions are working hard to reduce dependence on dangerous and potentially deadly substances like prescription drugs, alcohol, and tobacco. Since 2008, Tennessee has funded these community-level efforts to spread awareness about the risks and consequences of substance use.
Many coalitions focus on engaging young people in substance-free activities and helping reinforce smoke-free ordinances. They also work to educate communities on safe alcohol practices and support consistent penalties for alcohol and drug-related offenses.
Tennessee’s prevention efforts come in many forms. From youth-focused initiatives led by the Substance Use Prevention Coalitions to naloxone training and distribution provided by Regional Overdose Prevention Specialists, all of these programs share the same goal: reducing risk factors and strengthening the protective factors that help prevent addiction.