Tools for Overdose Prevention

Peer support services (PSS) are a valuable component of a growing number of overdose response and linkage to care initiatives that can be implemented and supported by local and state health departments. This toolkit is for local and state health departments and community partners who are exploring opportunities to implement or enhance PSS within overdose response and linkage to care initiatives. This toolkit provides information, resources, tools, actionable steps and real-world examples informed by the latest research, subject matter experts and experiences from diverse settings across the country.

Local and state health departments are uniquely well-suited to link people at risk of overdose to care and services to improve their health and wellbeing. To support linkage to care efforts for people at risk of overdose, the National Council for Mental Wellbeing, in partnership with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, developed Overdose Response and Linkage to Care: A Roadmap for Health Departments, a technical assistance tool informed by real-world experience.

Attendees of this webinar heard from health department staff and peer support workers implementing overdose response initiatives across the country, who discussed planning and implementation considerations for integrating peer support services in health departments.

Attendees of this webinar heard directly from health department staff implementing a variety of these linkage to care strategies to prevent overdose. These strategies can be adapted and replicated to meet the needs of communities across the country.

Attendees heard from health department staff and community-based peer support workers implementing culturally centered peer support services. Rooted in diversity, equity, and inclusion, these strategies can be adapted and replicated to improve care for people who use drugs and promote wellness among peer support workers.