MOBILE, Ala. — The Mobile County Health Department’s (MCHD) Overdose Prevention team attended the Alabama Department of Mental Health’s Peer Certification Conference from March 26 to 29 in Bessemer. Two MCHD staff Peer Recovery Specialists, John Richardson and Deirdre Johnson, participated.

“The conference provided an opportunity for them to renew their certification and learn about the latest advancements and best practices in peer recovery,” said Danielle Simpson, the Overdose Prevention program administrator. “Additionally, Deirdre Johnson serves on the hospitality committee annually for this conference.”

Simpson said the Alabama Department of Mental Health recognizes the outstanding work of peers every year, and this conference was no exception.

“We are thrilled to announce that John Richardson received the Excellence Service Award for ‘Going Above and Beyond the Call of Duty for Recovery Support’ at the conference,” she said. “This prestigious award recognizes individuals who have demonstrated exceptional dedication, knowledge, and leadership in the field of peer recovery.

“As an organization, we are incredibly proud of John’s achievement and grateful to have him as part of our team. His commitment to helping those struggling with addiction and mental health issues is a testament to his character and his passion for making a positive impact in our community.”

Richardson was moved by the award. “I was very surprised and honored to be selected by ADMH as there are over 300 peers in the state,” he said.

Richardson and Johnson both discuss the program and their own recovery stories on an episode of Wellness Wednesday. It can be viewed at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RO4oRyUN7iA&t=146s.

MCHD’s Overdose Prevention team supports, empowers, educates, and promotes prevention and surveillance strategies for substance use disorders, misuse and abuse of opioids, polysubstance abuse, and illegal stimulants. In addition, they promote alternatives to risky behaviors to develop individuals, families, and communities throughout Mobile County.

MCHD’s team is equipped to support overdose prevention and harm reduction and navigate participants through recovery. To learn more, call 251-410-6322 or send an email to [email protected].

Information on the program can also be found on the MCHD smartphone app. It is available to download for free in the App Store and Google Play. Search “My MCHD Health Check” or visit the following link to download the app — https://apps.myocv.com/share/a65536603. The app can be used in both English and Spanish.