West TN Drug Coalition’s regional overdose training helps save lives

JACKSON, Tenn. — The West Tennessee Drug Coalition visited the Jackson Exchange Club Tuesday to provide information on the opioid overdose crisis in the state.

Most recent data from the CDC and Tennessee Department of Health shows from 2012 to 2021 more than 19,000 Tennesseans have died of a drug overdose, which is enough to completely fill up the FedEx forum.

The information and training was centered on how to use naloxone, a medicine that rapidly reverses an opioid overdose.

The regional overdose training is provided to churches, schools, or any organization that is interested.

“Not only do we train you on how to reverse an overdose with an naloxone kit we also train about what addiction is and different recovery supports and how to support somebody if you know somebody is struggling with addiction,” said Sarah Mays, regional overdose specialist.

There are also services offered through the Lifeline Peer Project.

These are individuals who help others with treatment and speak publicly about their own personal experience with recovery.

“So if you find yourself struggling with an opioid or substance abuse problem you can reach out to use the Lifeline Peer Project. We can connect you to resources–sober living, detox, treatment, whatever you need. We know all of the good places for you to go across the state. It’s our job to know and we’ve been where you are, and we know a way out,” said Dianne Sherrod, Lifeline Peer Project coordinator.

For more information on substance abuse coalitions, click here. To connect with a substance use prevention coalition in your area, click here.

The Tennessee Redline is a 24-7 resource for substance misuse treatment referrals. Anyone can call or text 800-889-9789 for confidential referrals.

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