The prevalence of non-medical use of prescription pain relievers in the Nashville-Davidson-Murfreesboro-Franklin Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) is 6.4%, which is similar to the national average. In Tennessee, 80% of crimes have a drug-related connection, making it essential to address the use and abuse of illegal drugs. However, drug use in Tennessee has many different facets. Franklin, located just outside of Nashville, is home to a plethora of country music stars.
While it's a thriving residential community, it's also unfortunately growing in other areas such as alcohol and drug addiction. Statistics show that Franklin, as part of the Nashville metropolitan area, consumes more substances than other cities in Tennessee. In recent years, the state of Tennessee has taken steps to reduce these numbers, particularly the deadly impact of opioids. The state has implemented various initiatives to reduce drug use in Franklin and other cities in Tennessee. These include increasing access to treatment and recovery services, providing education and prevention programs for youth and adults, and increasing access to naloxone, an opioid overdose reversal medication.
Additionally, the state has increased law enforcement efforts to target drug traffickers and dealers. The state has also implemented a number of programs to help those struggling with addiction. These include providing access to medication-assisted treatment (MAT), which combines medication with counseling and behavioral therapies; providing access to peer recovery support services; and offering housing assistance for those in recovery. Despite these efforts, drug use remains a major problem in Franklin and other cities in Tennessee. To further reduce drug use in Franklin and other cities in Tennessee, it is important to continue to focus on prevention and treatment initiatives. Additionally, it is important to provide support for those struggling with addiction so that they can get the help they need.
