The Overdose Prevention program works to build local capacity to improve public health response to the substance misuse epidemic in Hamilton County. Our office monitors data to identify populations at high risk for adverse consequences from substance misuse and employs evidence-based interventions that are responsive to population needs.
Program Contacts:
Crystal Howard, MAEd, CHES
Director of Community Health Services
Phone number: 423-209-8091
Email: [email protected]
Recognizing an overdose can save someone’s life. Here are the signs you should look for, according to the CDC:
- Small, constricted “pinpoint” pupils
- Falling asleep or losing consciousness
- Slow, weak, or not breathing
- Choking or gurgling sounds
- Limp body
- Cold and/or clammy skin
- Discolored skin (especially on lips and nails)
What to do if you think someone is overdosing
It may be hard to tell whether a person is high or experiencing an overdose. If you aren’t sure, treat it like an overdose—you could save a life.
- Call 911 Immediately.
- Administer naloxone, if available.
- Try to keep the person awake and breathing.
- Lay the person on their side to prevent choking.
- Stay with the person until emergency assistance arrives
All suspect cases should be reported immediately.
The Tennessee REDLINE is the 24/7/365 resource for substance misuse treatment referrals. Anyone can call or text 800-889-9789 for confidential referrals. Additional resources can be found in the Hamilton County drug overdose resource guide.
Hamilton County Drug Overdose Surveillance Reports
Tennessee Department of Health Data
The Tennessee REDLINE is the 24/7/365 resource for substance misuse treatment referrals. Anyone can call or text 800-889-9789 for confidential referrals. Additional resources can be found in the Hamilton County drug overdose resource guide.
What are Opioids?
What is Fentanyl?
Narcan training and Opioid Reversal Kit
Recovery and Treatment options
Resources for Parents and Educators:
Addiction and the Brain
Emerging Drug Trends
Recovery Navigators play a crucial role in supporting individuals struggling with substance use disorders by guiding them through the often complex journey toward recovery. These professionals act as liaisons between clients and the appropriate levels of care, ensuring that individuals receive services tailored to their unique needs. Recovery Navigators assess the individual's situation, identify suitable treatment options, and facilitate connections to resources such as detox programs, outpatient or inpatient treatment, Medically Assisted Treatment, and other support systems like housing and relapse prevention. The primary goal is to ensure that clients are linked to comprehensive, timely, and effective care that fosters long-term recovery.