NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention showed that reported overdose deaths dropped significantly across the U.S. last year — including in Tennessee.

The CDC found that across the United States, reported drug overdose deaths were down by 25.6%. In Tennessee, there was a 31.14% reduction in the number of reported opioid deaths.

"It's not a moral failing," Matthew Peters with the Metro Public Health Department said. "It's a problem. It's an addiction."

Mandi Ryan, vice president of healthcare integration at Centerstone, said she's hopeful about the latest numbers. Centerstone specializes in mental health and substance use disorders.

"We saw the rise in the pandemic, so the decrease to where we are in the overdose is similar to what we were pre-pandemic," Ryan said.

The availability of naloxone is thought to help play a role in the decline. Despite the availability, though, the Metro Public Health Department reported that more than 500 people died from suspected overdoses last year.

"I believe there's a lot of times where individuals may start out being prescribed a medication for pain or some kind of injury that then turns into an addiction," Ryan said.

Ryan added that it can be difficult to tell someone that you need help, but loved ones can help along the way.

"Help is available and we want to help more people celebrate more with their families, be able to see more birthdays, and be there," Peters added.

For those in Davidson County seeking help, the Community Overdose Treatment Response team can help. It's free regardless of insurance status. To make a referral or learn more, call 615-687-1701.

News Source : https://www.wkrn.com/news/local-news/nashville/cdc-drug-overdose-deaths-down-from-2023-in-2024/