Understanding Overdose in South Florida
Overdose is a serious health issue that affects people across South Florida and the country. It happens when someone takes more of a drug than their body can safely handle. This can include prescription medications, opioids, or other substances.
In many cases, overdose can lead to unconsciousness, breathing problems, or even death.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 107,000 people in the United States died from a drug overdose in 2022. That’s about one person every five minutes.
Why Overdose Awareness Is Important
Overdose can happen to anyone. It may involve someone who is managing pain with prescription medicine, experimenting with drugs, or using substances to cope with stress or emotional challenges.
The effects can be life-threatening, but many overdoses are preventable with the right tools and support.
How Care Resource Helps
Care Resource is a health center that provides a wide range of services to help prevent overdose and supports people who use substances. Their approach is based on care, respect, and access to health services for everyone.
Here’s how Care Resource supports overdose prevention:
- Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT): This treatment helps people reduce or stop opioid use with the help of medications and counseling.
- Behavioral Health Services: These services offer support for emotional and mental well-being, which can reduce the need for substance use.
- Mobile Health Units: These units bring care directly to neighborhoods, making it easier for people to get help where they are.
- Screenings and Referrals: Care Resource offers testing for conditions like HIV and Hepatitis C, which are sometimes linked to drug use, and connects people to the care they need.
What The SPOT Offers in Broward County
The SPOT (Special Purpose Outreach Team) is a mobile medical clinic operated by Care Resource in Broward County. It focuses on harm reduction and overdose prevention.
Here’s what The SPOT provides:
- Free Naloxone (Narcan): This medicine can reverse an opioid overdose and is available at no cost.
- Safe Syringe Exchange Program: This helps reduce the spread of infections and encourages people to connect with health services.
- Wound Care and Lab Testing: The SPOT offers basic medical care and testing for people who may not have access to regular healthcare.
- Outreach and Education: The team provides information and supplies during events and in areas where overdose risk is higher.
These services are confidential, non-judgmental, and focused on keeping people safe and healthy.
What You Can Do
If you or someone you know is using drugs, there are steps you can take to stay safe:
- Learn the signs of overdose.
- Carry naloxone and know how to use it.
- Store medications safely and dispose of unused ones properly.
- Talk to a healthcare provider about treatment options.
- Reach out to local services like Care Resource or The SPOT for support.
Support Is Available
Overdose is preventable, and help is available. Whether you need treatment, supplies like naloxone, or just someone to talk to, Care Resource and The SPOT are here to support you.
Their services are designed to meet people where they are and help them take the next step toward better health.
To learn more or get help, visit Care Resource or The SPOT Broward.
