Drug And Alcohol Addiction In Pembroke Pines, Florida
Pembroke Pines, Florida, is located nearly 22 miles north of Miami and has a population of roughly 170,072 people. Broward County, home to Pembroke Pines, is experiencing multiple public health issues as a result of drug and alcohol abuse. Drugs like synthetic and prescription Opioids, Cocaine, and Marijuana are commonly abused in the county. The availability of Fentanyl and its distribution are linked to the increase of Opioid-related deaths in the area. There were 94 Fentanyl-related deaths in Broward County during the first half of 2016- more than double the numbers from 2015. Additionally, rates of youth alcohol abuse, Benzodiazepine use, and Cocaine use are all on the rise.
The county has multiple drug and alcohol prevention and support organizations dedicated to reducing negative consequences on individuals, families and communities. Theses organizations include the Broward Youth Coalition. This organization’s mission is to educate the youth on drug prevention and mental health while empowering them to be agents of change in their community. For those actively seeking treatment for substance abuse, over 20 treatment centers are available throughout Florida.
The Opioid Epidemic In Pembroke Pines
Like many major American cities, Pembroke Pines endures an ongoing battle with the Opioid epidemic. Broward County endured 582 Opioid overdoses in 2016, 90% of which were the result of Heroin abuse. By 2017, this number increased drastically. Broward County treated 1,642 Opioid-related overdoses, with 85% of those being Heroin overdoses. Several Opioid-related overdoses included non-prescription Fentanyl, and Heroin-Fentanyl drug combinations. The mixing of drugs is called poly-drug use.
Aside from Heroin, many who abuse Opioids take prescription Opioids for pain relief. Due to their ability to calm the mind and body, people find drugs like Oxycodone, Methadone, and Hydrocodone highly addicting. Broward County found prescription and illicit Opioids present in 8,162 deceased people in 2016.
Signs Of Opioid Abuse In Pembroke Pines
The signs of Opioid abuse vary depending on the type of Opioid someone takes. There are signs of Opioid abuse one can look out for, such as:
- Isolating one’s self to abuse Opioids.
- Hanging out with new people who use Opioids.
- Increasing dosages of Opioids.
- Using Opioids while driving.
- Spending more money on drugs.
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms if reducing use.
Someone abusing Opioids also experience behavioral differences such as:
- Chills
- Yawning
- Goosebumps
- Irritability
- Tremors
- Enlarged pupils
- Appetite loss
- Track marks in arms (if using Heroin or other intravenous drugs)
Developing A Heroin Addiction In Pembroke Pines
Heroin is one of the strongest Opioids commonly abused. Heroin is a cheaper and stronger alternative to many prescription drugs on the market. Â It is also one of the most dangerous, posing lethal consequences.
Often times, people become exposed to Heroin through as a result of dependence on prescription Opioids. If someone with chronic pain gets medication from the doctor, but develops a tolerance, they can seek a stronger and cheaper substance, such as Heroin. Former or current medical patients who are seeking a different Opioid may even get fake pain medications that contain Heroin from drug dealers. Consequently, the patient unknowingly develops a craving for Heroin.

Break free from addiction.
You have options. Talk about them with a treatment provider today.
Getting Help In Pembroke Pines
Finding help for an ongoing substance use disorder (SUD) doesn’t have to be a difficult process. Treatment providers are trained to help find all available treatment options. Future patients can ask questions about the facilities and discover more detail about finance options. Patients who are considering rehab will learn about peer groups and whether or not family members are allowed for visiting. Your future can be full of hope and recovery. Contact a treatment provider today.
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Author
Krystina Murray

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Krystina Murray has received a B.A. in English at Georgia State University, has over 5 years of professional writing and editing experience, and over 15 years of overall writing experience. She enjoys traveling, fitness, crafting, and spreading awareness of addiction recovery to help people transform their lives.
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