Saint Lucie County in Florida has been grappling with a significant alcohol and drug problem, with many residents falling victim to substance abuse and addiction. To combat this issue, the county offers a range of treatment facilities to address addiction and mental health disorders.
Drug rehab and addiction treatment centers can also be referred to as an inpatient treatment program, alcohol treatment program, or outpatient treatment program. “IOP” is an intensive outpatient treatment program where patients participate several times a week but do not reside at a rehab facility. Throughout St. Lucie County Florida, there are sober homes where patients can reside if they need to be in a safe environment.
This page is to discuss places to find help and types of recovery options offered in Port Saint Lucie, FL, Fort Pierce FL, and throughout the county of St. Lucie, FL.
St. Lucie County, Florida: Alcohol and Drug Problem and Getting Help
In St. Lucie County the community is facing an avalanche of problems from residents abusing alcohol and drugs. Many residents are falling victim to alcoholism, opioid addiction and other drugs and substances that fall under a diagnosis of substance use disorder.
For a person struggling with addiction, seeking professional help is crucial. Those who know they are addicts and cannot stop, need to know exactly how to get into a rehab and if detox is needed, they need to know where to go.
Finding Help in Port Saint Lucie, Fl and within the County
Most drug rehab centers in St. Lucie County provide comprehensive drug addiction treatment, including inpatient treatment programs. These programs offer intensive therapy and medical detox for withdrawal symptoms under the supervision of experienced staff. Inpatient treatment allows individuals to receive the necessary care in a controlled environment, minimizing the risk of relapse during the early stages of recovery.
Similarly, alcohol addiction treatment centers are available to address the specific needs of those battling alcoholism. These alcohol treatment centers provide a variety of programs tailored to the individual, such as dual diagnosis treatment for individuals with co-occurring mental health disorders. By addressing both the addiction and any underlying mental illness, these centers offer a holistic approach to recovery.
How Much Does Rehab Cost?
To ensure a successful rehabilitation process, medical supervision and a treatment plan tailored to each person’s needs are essential. Treatment throughout St. Lucie County focuses on providing comfortable treatment options that take into account the unique circumstances and preferences of patients seeking help. Additionally, many treatment centers work with insurance providers to ensure that addiction treatment is accessible and affordable for those in need.
Insurance covers most treatment facilities. The severity and history of a persons addiction dictates what level of care a person is best suited. Withdrawal symptoms will require detox and medical supervision. If your insurance covers a recovery facility, you will need to pay your co-payments and deductibles. It is most cost effective to find a treatment center that is in-network, as they have already vetted the quality of care and pre negotiated a contracted rate on your behalf.
The Marchman Act – A Legal Provision to Help Those Who Cannot Help Themselves
The Marchman Act is a legal provision that allows for involuntary assessment and stabilization of individuals who meet the criteria for involuntary admission due to alcoholism and addictions.
If a person is deemed to meet the criteria, they can be admitted to a hospital, licensed detox facility, addictions treatment facility, or a less restrictive component of a licensed service provider for assessment or stabilization. The initiation of involuntary assessment and stabilization requires the submission of a petition to the court.
For adults, the petition can be filed by the respondent’s spouse, guardian, relative, private practitioner, director of a licensed service provider (or designee), or three adults with personal knowledge of the respondent’s substance abuse impairment. For minors, the petition can be filed by a parent, legal guardian, legal custodian, or licensed service provider.
For more information about the Marchman Act, individuals can contact the St. Lucie County Clerk of Court Mental Health Division.
What if Someone is Arrested for Drugs and Wants Help in Port Saint Lucie Florida?
If a judge can determine they are candidate for the program, the judge can place participants into treatment centers under “drug court”
What is Drug Court?
Drug Court in St. Lucie County is a specialized program designed to provide judicially supervised treatment to individuals facing criminal charges who struggle with substance use or abuse. The primary objective of the program is to address the underlying mental health or substance abuse issues that contributed to the individual’s involvement with the criminal justice system.
Participants must make a full commitment to recovery maintaining sobriety and living in a law-abiding life. The program is voluntary and involves regular court appearances before a Drug Court Judge. Additionally, participants are required to adhere to and complete a personalized treatment plan, which may include various components such as outpatient or inpatient treatment, transitional housing, random drug testing, counseling or therapy, educational or vocational programs, participation in self-help groups like AA or NA, job training, and medication management.
How Does Someone Get Into Drug Court?
There are two pathways to enter the Drug Court program. The first option is through diversion, where cases can be dismissed upon successful completion of the program. However, failure or discharge from the program may result in the imposition of a sentence.
The second pathway is as a condition of probation. Upon completion, probation cases are not dismissed, but participants receive a graduation certificate and may be eligible to have their probation terminated. Conversely, failure or discharge from the program will lead to a violation of probation.
If you are unsure about the type of case you have, it is advisable to consult with your attorney for clarification.
St. Lucie County Recognizes Treatment Programs and Free Recovery Options
St. Lucie County also recognizes the importance of inpatient treatment programs and outpatient treatment. These programs allow individuals to receive treatment in house or while still maintaining their daily routines and responsibilities. Both Inpatient and outpatient treatment centers offer individual therapy, group counseling, and usually follow a rehabilitation curriculum while offering life skills and services to help individuals overcome addiction and develop healthy coping mechanisms.
12 Step Networks
Recovery networks, such as Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous groups, play a vital role in the recovery journey. These groups provide a safe and understanding space for individuals to share their experiences and receive a welcome from a like minded fellowship of peers who have faced similar challenges.
St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office Offers Prescription Drug Abuse Help
Prescription drug abuse help aims to provide guidance and resources for individuals seeking assistance for substance abuse issues, particularly related to prescription drugs.
Prescription drug abuse has become a significant concern in the county. To combat this issue, St. Lucie County emphasizes education and awareness about the risks associated with prescription drugs. By providing information on the dangers of misuse and the importance of responsible medication management, the county aims to prevent addiction and support those in need of assistance.
Prescription Drug Abuse provides information on recognizing signs of substance abuse and offers resources for getting assistance.
Some common signs of substance abuse include:
- changes in behavior and attitude
- deteriorating family relationships
- long unexplained absences, lying and stealing
- obvious intoxication or unconsciousness
- seclusive behavior
- and unfortunately – needle marks on the upper arms of addicts
NOPE of St. Lucie County
NOPE of St. Lucie County is an organization dedicated to addressing the issue of drug abuse among youth in St. Lucie County. A survey revealed that a significant percentage of middle and high school students in the county have experimented with alcohol, marijuana, and prescription pain relievers.
NOPE conducts presentations in schools and colleges to educate students about the consequences of drug abuse. Community leaders, including police officers and parents who have lost children to addiction, deliver impactful presentations that aim to raise awareness among students. These presentations often lead to students seeking help for themselves or others, with counselors available to offer assistance.
To schedule a NOPE presentation for students or parents, interested individuals can click here. NOPE of St. Lucie County strives to empower both students and parents with knowledge and resources to combat drug abuse in the community.
Drug Free St. Lucie, Fl.
Drug Free St. Lucie is a coalition working towards creating a substance-free community and promoting well-being among youth through advocacy and community collaboration. Their mission is to develop a healthy and vibrant community that is free from substance abuse. Recent data indicates positive trends in St. Lucie County, showing a decrease in marijuana use, illicit drug use, underage drinking, early initiation of marijuana use, and an increase in the perception of the harmfulness of alcohol among youth.
The Drug Free St. Lucie Coalition operates under the Strategic Prevention Framework, focusing on developing infrastructure and implementing community-based public health approaches to effectively reduce alcohol, marijuana, and other substance use. The coalition has received a five-year Drug Free Communities grant from the White House’s Office of National Drug Control Policy and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, demonstrating recognition of their leadership and the community’s commitment to youth well-being.
Drug Free St. Lucie implements initiatives and campaigns aimed at preventing underage drinking and substance abuse. They organize events like the “One St. Lucie Youth Con” to empower middle and high school students to make positive decisions and provide input on matters that affect them.
Additionally, they offer programs such as “Hidden In Plain Sight,” an interactive experience for parents to recognize signs of adolescent drug and alcohol abuse, and conduct compliance checks to deter alcohol outlets from selling to underage individuals. The coalition also promotes the “Friday Night Done Right” social norm campaign, which encourages teens to engage in alternative activities instead of drinking or doing drugs.
They provide resources and materials to raise awareness and educate parents and youth about substance abuse laws, the consequences of breaking them, and the dangers of underage drinking. Individuals can access resources and contact Drug Free St. Lucie and participate in their various programs and initiatives.
The Florida Department of Health in St. Lucie County (DOH-St. Lucie) has announced the availability of free Naloxone (Narcan) Nasal Spray
The Florida Department of Health in St. Lucie County (DOH-St. Lucie) has announced the availability of free Naloxone (Narcan) Nasal Spray kits as a measure to reduce substance abuse deaths. Naloxone is a medication that can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose by restoring breathing and consciousness. The kits, which contain two Naloxone nasal sprays, are available to individuals who use drugs, have a history of drug use, or are at risk of experiencing an overdose. They can also be obtained by friends, family members, and others who may witness an overdose, and do not require the presence of a healthcare professional for administration.
St. Lucie County witnessed 94 drug-related fatalities in 2021 and is projected to have an even higher number this year. Clint Sperber, the Health Officer and Administrator with DOH-St. Lucie, emphasizes the importance of Naloxone as a critical tool in preventing future fatalities.
While Naloxone can be administered by a bystander before emergency medical assistance arrives, it should not substitute professional medical care, and individuals are advised to call 911 immediately when an opioid overdose is suspected, before administering Naloxone.
To obtain a Naloxone kit from DOH-St. Lucie County, individuals must be 18 years or older and meet the eligibility criteria, which includes being at risk of experiencing an opioid overdose or being a caregiver or witness likely to encounter such an overdose. The kits are available at specified DOH-St. Lucie County locations on weekdays, and appointments are not required. Monday thru Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., at the following DOH-St. Lucie County locations:
- 5150 NW Milner Drive, Port St. Lucie, FL 34983
- 3855 South US 1, Fort Pierce, FL 34982
Along with the Naloxone kits, recipients will also receive educational materials, referrals, and connections to substance abuse intervention resources.
Increasing access to Naloxone is considered vital in combating the opioid epidemic, particularly in areas with limited healthcare access. By providing Naloxone through county health departments, support can be extended to individuals dealing with substance use disorders across the state, ultimately helping to prevent overdose deaths in Florida.
Sources:
https://www.stluciesheriff.com/223/Prescription-Drug-Abuse-Help
http://www.nopetaskforce.com/chapter-st-lucie.php
https://www.stluciesheriff.com/BusinessDirectoryII.aspx?lngBusinessCategoryID=23
https://stlucie.floridahealth.gov/newsroom/2022/11/naloxone.html.
https://orange.floridahealth.gov/newsroom/2022/12/substance-abuse-deaths.html
