Story perspectives

Overdose Rates Drop Nationally, West Virginia Leads Recovery Efforts

12/28/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Overdoses have declined nationally since late 2023, with West Virginia showing significant reductions.
Public health experts are examining factors behind this trend, including crisis intervention training for law enforcement (CIT).
Crisis intervention training helps officers recognize and assist individuals with substance use disorders instead of incarceration, a shift viewed as a positive development.
Yolandah Mwikisa, a crisis intervention training coordinator, emphasizes empathetic engagement and direct connections to treatment facilities.

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Story summary

Overdoses have declined nationally since late 2023, with West Virginia showing significant reductions.
Public health experts are examining factors behind this trend, including crisis intervention training for law enforcement (CIT).
Crisis intervention training helps officers recognize and assist individuals with substance use disorders instead of incarceration, a shift viewed as a positive development.
Yolandah Mwikisa, a crisis intervention training coordinator, emphasizes empathetic engagement and direct connections to treatment facilities.