According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, in Tennessee,
drug overdose deaths involving opioids totaled 1,307 in 2018 (a rate of 19.9). Deaths
involving synthetic opioids other than methadone (mainly fentanyl and fentanyl
analogs) increased from 590 (a rate of 9.3) in 2017 to 827 (a rate of 12.8) in
2018. Drug-Free Tennessee has long warned youth and adults alike on the
dangers of drug abuse. During the summer, DFT is reminding parents to help
their kids with drug-free activities so they stay safe and healthy.  There are infinite ideas for safe, healthy activities kids can do
during summer from sports, swimming, biking, attending or hosting cookouts, hiking,
and more. Some ideas can be found at kidshealth.org, including a breakdown for
interests by grade level.  International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking
occurs on June 26 each year and was created by the UN General Assembly in
December 1987 to encourage all sectors of society to work together to tackle
drug abuse and addiction. Drug-Free Tennessee has hosted virtual resources throughout 2020 at
drugfreetn.org and has continued this year with audio-visual messages and
videos aimed at helping people steer clear of drug abuse and addiction. With restrictions
lifted across Tennessee, volunteers are eager to get the truth directly to
people once again with the Truth About Drugs booklets and will be distributing these
in observance of the international holiday.  



















The organization has also long offered virtual learning resources
and free materials to all educators wanting to help people learn the truth
about drugs. Resources are available free of charge through drugfreeworld.org,
including downloadable Truth
About Drugs booklet, which cover all basic side effects of drugs, common street
names, and how to recognize when you are being persuaded by a dealer. DFT also
has a range of award winning Public Service Announcements and an award winning
feature length documentary detailing the dangers of drugs and addiction. To
learn more or to order booklets or view the videos, visit drugfreetn.org and
drugfreeworld.org.