Substance Abuse in Arkansas: How You Can Help

Ten minutes. That's how long it takes for cellular death to begin in the brain after an overdose. Ten minutes between life and death. Between a second chance and a closed casket. This is why the conversation matters. In this episode of The Faith Network Podcast, we sit down with three women on the front lines of Arkansas's fight against opioid overdose—researchers, practitioners, and survivors working together to put a life-saving tool in the hands of anyone willing to use it. Meghan Breckling – Assistant Professor at UAMS College of Pharmacy and lead on the Arkansas Naloxone Education Training Program Leah Tobey-More – Physical Therapist and co-grant writer with a passion for evidence-based pain management Yolanda Peoples – Celebrating 10 years in long-term recovery and now a trainer in the program Here's what we cover: What is naloxone? Narcan is the brand name, but naloxone is the drug—an intranasal spray (like an asthma inhaler) that reverses the effects of opioid overdose. And here's the key: even if you're not sure someone has taken an opioid, administering it won't hurt them. Why this program exists: The Faith Network began partnering with others across the state and noticed something troubling—partners were having health crises. If it's happening to leaders, it's happening in our communities. This conversation had to happen. Implementation science: As Meghan put it, "Implementation science is taking what we know works in a controlled environment and putting it into practice in a messy, real-world environment." That's exactly what this team is doing—training trainers across Arkansas to equip everyday people to save lives. The training is simple: 90 minutes for trainers. 30 minutes for community members. Children could learn to administer it. You don't need a medical degree. You just need to show up. A voice from recovery: Yolanda said it plainly—"An addict will not use money to buy naloxone, so it's important we equip them with a life-saving device." She now goes into the community with a sense of urgency, training others to do what she wishes someone could have done for her. The gap we need to close: Most trainers are concentrated in Central Arkansas. Rural communities are underserved. If your church or organization wants to host a training, the door is open. Look for the bright red opioid overdose prevention kit. It looks like a first aid kit—because that's exactly what it is. Ten minutes. That's the window. Let's make sure someone's ready. Resources Mentioned This Episode: Trainer Interest Form – for healthcare providers interested in becoming a program trainer. Trainers complete a 90-minute initial training with our team and then deliver education in their local communities. Community Member Naloxone Training Interest Form – for anyone interested in learning about opioid overdose response and naloxone administration (30–45 minute class). ANET Facebook Page ANET LinkedIn Page This episode is brought to you by the Translational Research Institute.