Overdose Prevention in Rural Communities
Introduction
▸Substance Use Disorder in Rural Communities
Overdose Prevention Strategies
Partnerships & Rural Coalition Building
Communication Strategies
Substance Use Disorder in Rural Communities
Rural communities face many hurdles in addressing opioid and other substance use disorders (SUD). Research shows that people living in rural communities who are in need of care are falling through the cracks, often losing their lives. Between 1999 and 2015, drug overdose deaths in rural counties jumped by 325% compared to 198% in metropolitan areas. Today, nearly every community has been affected by substance use. As the prevalence of SUD and drug overdose deaths continues to rise in rural areas, the myth that drug use is an urban and inner-city issue can no longer be held.
Related resources
Overdose Prevention 101: Our NOPN resource guide for those new to overdose prevention or want to support colleagues and community members who are new to this work. The guide provides an overview of the core areas of overdose prevention, from how to build a strong coalition to key evidence-based strategies.
Addiction Neuroscience 101: An essential primer for anyone working in the field of substance use and addiction.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Overdose data, evidence-based strategies, media campaigns, and a comprehensive resource center.
Opioid Response Network: Provides free training and education to address opioid, stimulant, and all substance use disorders.
Rural Community Toolbox: Website with substance use prevention and treatment resources for rural communities including funding opportunities, treatment locators, data tools, and trainings.
Rural Community Action Guide: Insights and expertise from a wide range of stakeholders working to address substance use disorder and related issues in rural communities nationwide. Learn about recommended action steps rural communities can take related to prevention, treatment, and recovery.
Substance Use and Misuse in Rural Areas: This topic guide covers the effect of substance use on rural communities
Rural Health Policy Brief: This policy brief focuses on opioid use and overdose in rural America.
Rural Resilience in Northern California: In this video, rural leaders highlight challenges and successes they’ve had with implementing programs in their own counties.
