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Senate Bill 2019, sponsored by Rep. Shane Reeves, R-Bedford, is expected to be signed by the governor. It would take effect July 1, 2024. (18percentgrey/Adobe Stock)

Thursday, April 18, 2024

TN poised to expand access to opioid treatment at Community Health Centers

There is light at the end of the tunnel for Tennesseans struggling with opioid addiction, as a bill has been passed to increase access to treatment …

Over the life of the program, Tennessee has trained more than 2,000 Certified Peer Support Specialists, according to the Dept. of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services. (Monkey Business/Adobe Stock)

TN Peer Recovery Specialist Program Reaches Milestone

Tennessee now has over 1,000 people across the state who are actively using their past experience with mental-health and substance-use challenges to h…

Fentanyl and carfentanil, a derivative used to anesthetize elephants, are driving overdose deaths in Tennessee and across the nation, according to the Tennessee Department of Health.(Adobe Stock)

TN Officials Work to Separate 'Fact from Fiction' on Fentanyl

Across the state on Wednesday, events are being held to commemorate International Overdose Awareness Day in Tennessee. State data showed in 2020…

Nationwide, overdose deaths from synthetic opioids, primarily fentanyl and methamphetamine, rose 15% in 2021 compared to the previous year, according to the CDC. (Adobe Stock)

Social Media Drives Sales of Illicit Pills Laced with Fentanyl

Online sales of counterfeit prescription pills containing fentanyl are on the rise, and experts say social media apps like Snapchat and TikTok are …

CDC data shows drug-overdose deaths reached a record high of 93,331 people in 2020. (Adobe Stock)

Tennesseans Remember Those Lost to Opioid Overdose

NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- Tennesseans paused to remember International Overdose Awareness Day today, as the state reported increased numbers of overdose …

Menthol cigarettes are used at higher rates in African-American populations due to decades-long marketing campaigns by large tobacco companies. (Adobe Stock)

Tobacco Use Continues to Impact TN Communities of Color

NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- Today is the American Cancer Society's Great American Smokeout event, where thousands of people across the country decide to quit …

Tennessee's pre-arrest diversion clinics connected more than 7,000 people to mental-health treatment instead of jail between 2017 and 2019. (Adobe Stock)

Drop-Off Clinics Keeping People with Mental Illness, Substance Abuse Out of Jail

NASHVILLE, Tenn. - Tennessee is increasing the number of drop-off clinics that allow police officers to take people with mental-health and/or …

Nearly 70% of cities report that substance abuse remains the largest cause of homelessness for single adults, according to the National Alliance to End Homelessness.(Adobe Stock)

Statewide Push Aims to Create Housing for People in Recovery

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. - A handful of substance-abuse and mental-health treatment centers around the state will receive funding to hire regional housing …

As of this month, at least 49 people in Tennessee have been hospitalized with serious lung injuries from using vaping products, according to the Tennessee Department of Health. (Adobe Stock)

TN Medical Association Calls for Ban on Flavored Vape Products

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Gov. Bill Lee has yet to respond to medical professionals calling for a statewide emergency ban on flavored vaping products…

“Tennessee Faces of the Opioid Crisis” Campaign Aims to End Stigma

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — The Tennessee Health Department has launched a new campaign to raise awareness of how the opioid epidemic impacts …

Tennesseeans filled about 885,000 fewer prescriptions for opioids in 2018 than they did in 2017, a one-year decrease of 13.4%. (Adobe Stock)

Tennessee Opioid Prescriptions On the Decline

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Opioid prescriptions in Tennessee dropped by about one-third between 2013 and 2018, according to new data released by the …

Regional overdose-prevention specialists in Tennessee have given away 35,000 units of naloxone across the state. (@monsterphotoiso/Twenty20)

Overdose-Prevention Program Equips More Tennesseans with Naloxone

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – A regional overdose-prevention program that equips citizens with naloxone is expanding across the state. Tennessee has …

Experts say early-childhood education can improve a child's potential for success in school and in life, in addition to improving socialization skills. (Twenty20)

TN Maintains Gains in Child Well-Being

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Tennessee is holding its place nationwide in terms of children's well-being, maintaining the same ranking as last year –…

Tennessee is leading many neighboring southern states in the reduction of opioid prescriptions and, most recently, legislation to work to curb addiction. (Twenty20)

TN Poised for Progress in Fight Against Opioid Addictions

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – This week, Tennessee stands out among many other states in the country – with the most comprehensive and restrictive …

Tennessee ranks among the highest in the country for drug imprisonment. (Matthias Muller/flickr)

Study: Jail Time Doesn't Discourage Drug Use

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – A new, 50-state study finds that putting more people in jail for drug offenses doesn't reduce drug use or overdose deaths…

People working to fight the opioid crisis in Tennessee are hopeful the declaration of a public health emergency will clear the way for funding. (frankieleon/flickr)

TN on Front Lines of Opioid Crisis: Trump Declares Public Health Emergency

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – The opioid crisis plaguing states such as Tennessee is officially declared a public health emergency. That announcement on …

While the U.S. Senate debates the future of health care, local leaders are left with uncertainty about how to handle their community health needs. (Sai Dhanush AV/flickr)

Health Care Uncertainty Trickles Down to Local Leaders

MEMPHIS, Tenn. – While the U.S. Senate battles over its version of a bill that would repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act - uncertainty …

In Tennessee, suspected drunk drivers can now refuse to take a blood-alcohol test without facing additional fines or jail time. (Rob Nguyen/Flickr)

MADD: Drunk Drivers' Rights Win Over Rights of Community

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – People accused of drunk driving in Tennessee no longer face additional charges if they refuse a blood alcohol test. …

Tennessee friends and family members of opioid addicts now will have greater access to Naloxone, known to be able to reverse the fatal effects of an overdose. (Governor Tom Wolf/flickr.com)

TN Has New Tool to Fight Opioid Overdose

NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- More than 1,200 Tennesseans died from opioid overdose in 2014 - the most recent year with data available. But the availability of …

The Tennessee state Supreme Court is taking up the question of when police have the right to pull a motorist over for a lane line violation. Credit: Pippalou/Morguefile.

Tenn. Supreme Court Ruling Could Change Police Traffic Stop Powers

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – Current law is unclear in Tennessee as to when police have the right to stop you for unsafe driving. The state Supreme …

Mothers Against Drunk Driving is urging drivers to make plans this Labor Day weekend if celebrations include alcohol. Credit: Seeman/morguefile.com

Labor Day Partying? Cost of Cab Cheaper than DUI

NASHVILLE, Tenn. - This Labor Day weekend, thousands of Tennesseans will imbibe a favorite alcoholic beverage while enjoying the long weekend with …

Photo: The CDC reports heroin use is on the rise, and addiction to painkillers may be a contributing factor. Photo credit: ronnieb/morguefile.com

Heroin Use on Rise, Experts Examine Connection to Other Addictions

NASHVILLE, Tenn. - Heroin use and abuse in the United States is rising among most age groups and income levels, according to a recent report from the …

PHOTO: The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has kicked off its new Tips from Former Smokers campaign, highlighting the health effects of smoking on the body beyond just the heart and lungs. Photo credit: Taylor Evers/Flickr.

New Anti-Smoking Campaign Goes After E-Cigarettes

NASHVILLE, Tenn. - Colon cancer, vision problems and myths about "vaping" - a slang term for using e-cigarettes - are featured in a new CDC public …

PHOTO: Experts recommend lots of water and a pain reliever to survive a post-St. Paddy's Day hangover. Photo credit: morguefile.com/dhester

Surviving Impacts of St. Paddy's Day: Expert Offers Tips to Feel Better

UNION CITY, Tenn. - If yesterday's luck of the Irish is leaving you feeling green today, the best medicine can be found from your kitchen faucet…

PHOTO: Research indicates early secure attachment in children as a way to deter the development of addictive personalities. Photo credit: S. Carson.

Report Highlights High Cost of Substance Abuse Prevention in Tennessee

NASHVILLE, Tenn. - Tennessee taxpayers spent more than $3 billion in 2013 on the problem of substance abuse, according to a recently released report …

PHOTO: The consumption of alcohol during pregnancy is one of the leading preventable causes of birth defects and childhood disabilities. Photo credit: Meagan/Flickr.

Fetal Alcohol Syndrome: Tennessee's Totally Preventable Problem

NASHVILLE, Tenn. - It is completely preventable, but there will be some 40-thousand babies born in the U.S. this year, including hundreds in …

PHOTO: Mothers Against Drunk Driving in Tennessee is reminding people to have a designated sober driver for their holiday festivities. Photo credit: Alan Cleaver/Flickr.

Drunk Driving and Holidays: A Deadly Combination in Tennessee

NASHVILLE, Tenn. - The holiday season in Tennessee is one of fun with friends and family, but it's also the deadliest time on the roads because of …

GRAPHIC: The new CDC National Youth Risk Behavior Survey shows 41 percent of teens admit to texting or e-mailing while driving. CREDIT: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

CDC: Risky Teen Behavior Shifts

NASHVILLE, Tenn. - Less cigarette smoking, soda drinking and physical fighting, but more time at computers and other tech devices. That's the …

IMAGE: Nearly 60 deaths at concerts in the U.S. and Canada were documented from 2010 to 2013. Image credit: ClickitTicket

Report: Dying at a Concert is Easier Than You Think

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – The summer concert season has arrived, and there are a number of dangers lurking amongst the music and the crowds that can …

PHOTO: Gov. Bill Haslam has until Tuesday to decide whether to sign legislation that allows a pregnant woman to be charged with a crime for drug use if it harms her baby. Photo credit: Daniel Lobo/Flickr

Decision Looms on Bill Targeting Pregnant Drug Users

NASHVILLE, Tenn. - Time is running out for Gov. Bill Haslam to make his decision on a bill that would allow Tennessee women to be charged with a …

PHOTO: Saying it would unfairly burden senior citizens and other consumers, AARP-Tennessee is opposing a proposal to restrict the purchase of medicines that can be used to make methamphetamine. Photo credit: Tbiley

Burden of Anti-Meth Legislation Could Fall on TN Senior Citizens

NASHVILLE, Tenn. - The goal is to curb the production of methamphetamine in Tennessee, but concerns are being raised about the unintended impact that …

Study: Little Difference in Risky Behaviors in PG-13, R Movies

NASHVILLE, Tenn. - Many parents would never think of allowing their young teen to see an R-rated movie, but a fresh study shows those films have much …

PHOTO: The costs associated with excessive alcohol use in Tennessee are more than $4 billion a year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. CREDIT: Graeme Maclean

Cost of Binge Drinking in Tennessee: $4 Billion Annually

NASHVILLE, Tenn. - The holidays are a time of celebrating, and often that includes the consumption of alcohol, but those who do not enjoy in …

PHOTO: Mothers Against Drunk Driving says high visibility law enforcement campaigns are a proven deterrent against drunk driving. The 'Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over' campaign runs through Labor Day Weekend. Photo credit: MADD

MADD 'Glad' About Crackdown on Drunk Driving

NASHVILLE, Tenn. - You might think an organization called "MADD" would not have much to be glad about, but having more police on the streets through …

GRAPHIC: The National Institutes of Health finds 12th graders abusing prescription and over-the counter medications. Courtesy of: NIH

Accidental Prescription Drug Poisonings on the Rise

NASHVILLE, Tenn. - As prescriptions increase for adult aches, pains and chronic illnesses, there's been a corresponding spike in accidental …

PHOTO: Drivers are being reminded of the dangers of distractions behind the wheel as the long holiday weekend continues. Texting is a major distraction, but officials say hands-free phones also take your attention away and can be just as dangerous. CREDIT: Robert Provost

Road Safety Urged as Long Holiday Weekend Continues

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – As the long holiday weekend continues, a reminder for drivers in Tennessee – keep your hands on the wheel and your …

PHOTO: Advocates say the Pulse Oximetry test for newborns is simple, inexpensive and will catch more congenital heart defects before a baby is sent home from the hospital. Courtesy American Heart Association

Beating the Odds: 4,000 Babies with Birth Defects in TN Annually

NASHVILLE, Tenn. - Hoping to catch more health issues before a baby is sent home from the hospital, a new screening is being administered to all …

Study: Spanking May Lead to Adult Mental Illness

NASHVILLE, Tenn. - Parents have historically disciplined their children by spanking, but a new report from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) …

Hombres sin hogar se vuelven sobrios, limpios y productivos

NAHVILLE, Tenn. - Un donativo de la organización "U.S. Housing and Urban Development" (Vivienda y Desarrollo Urbano de los Estados Unidos) …

Homeless Men Get Clean, Sober and Productive

NASHVILLE, Tenn. - Recent U.S. Housing and Urban Development grants of nearly $190 million are expected to help hundreds of local homeless assistance …

Environmental Health Risks: Not Just Cancer

WASHINGTON, D.C. - A recent report delivered to President Obama by a special panel appointed by President Bush warned that the risk of cancer from …

Parenting Group: Garth Brooks Setting Right Example for Fathers

NASHVILLE, Tenn. - Almost ten years ago, in 2000, country singer Garth Brooks was at the top of his career, bringing in millions of dollars a year…

Financial Bailout Bill Includes Victory For Mental Health Care

Nashville, TN – Look more closely at the massive Wall Street bailout bill and you'll find what consumer advocates are calling a victory for …

Planned Parenthood Teen Program "PG-13?"

Nashville, TN – This theater troupe is proudly rated "PG-13," and its aim is to attract the attention of Tennessee teenagers. The "PG-13 …

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TN: Alcohol and Drug Abuse Prevention