Wisconsin Overdose and Suicide Prevention Funding

Overdose prevention funding - Wisconsin

There were 106,699 drug overdose deaths in the United States in 2021 (32.4 deaths per 100,000 standard population), a 16% increase from 2020.1

*average award amount

Examples of how Wisconsin is working to prevent overdose

Increased local public health and public safety data sharing

In coordination with the Overdose Response Strategy in Wisconsin, the Milwaukee County Medical Examiner’s Office established a pilot program that investigates swabs or suspected surfaces associated with drug use at the scene of fatal overdoses. Findings from these analyses are used to identify emerging trends and are shared with the state’s fentanyl data action team for further monitoring.

Local community support expansion

Responding to the needs of local health departments, Wisconsin expanded coverage of its syndromic surveillance data from 75% to 85% statewide. Local and tribal health departments now receive weekly county-level alerts flagging any statistically significant increases in suspected/expected overdoses in their area.

First responder resources and training

Wisconsin provides resources and trainings related to harmful substance use and opioid overdose to first responders and community workers throughout the state. This initiative includes resiliency building resources and trainings as part of Resilient Wisconsin. All materials and resources are publicly available on the Resilient Wisconsin website.

Suicide prevention funding - Wisconsin

Wisconsin's suicide prevention priorities

Wisconsin is preventing suicide with CDC Injury Center funding by:A

• Creating protective environments
• Teaching coping and problem-solving skills
• Identifying and supporting people at risk
• Strengthening access and delivery of suicide care