Unfortunately, there aren’t many treatment centers in Okeechobee County. According to multiple websites, when compared to other counties, there is a lack of options. This in no way means residents of the area cannot get the treatment they deserve. But when compared to nearby cities and counties, the total number of centers is quite low.
Some of the options available in the county are faith-based, most of which are Christianity-focused. These centers provide inpatient treatment mainly, and they are gender-specific. There are multiple benefits to gender-specific programs, especially when it comes to group therapy. Other options for treatment in Okeechobee are detox centers that also offer aftercare support.
However, most websites show that other options are outside of a reasonable 20-mile radius from Okeechobee. This means driving for outpatient treatment might be a bit of a struggle, especially in case of more frequent visits needed. Luckily, the good news is that many of them offer inpatient options, allowing for the patient to relocate more easily. Many in-state locations in South Florida include both inpatient and outpatient.
Moving for treatment is something many people do often, and it has been proven effective. For some, leaving their routine and environment behind might be helpful – even recommended. Even in the case of outpatient treatment, patients need a safe, healthy living environment to go back to during their program. Although not everyone can move so easily, in case it is a possibility, it should be considered a valid option.
Okeechobee, FL Drug Abuse Statistics
Considering the intense history of drug abuse in Okeechobee, it is a bit surprising that there aren’t more resources for addiction recovery in the area. Analyzing data from 1999 to 2016, the total number of drug overdose deaths set Okeechobee County as the third deadliest county in Florida. The residents of the area are 57.8% more likely to have a deadly drug overdose than average Americans.
Law enforcement authorities have stated that, recently, the main issue in Okeechobee County has been opioids. The drug has been the main culprit for drug occurrences and deaths in the county. Heroin laced with fentanyl has been reported by sheriffs as a frequent problem. The opioid crisis has been an issue in most states in the U.S., and Florida is no different.
The issues with substance abuse vary with each demographic group, but they are a bit spread out across all of them. Most recent data shows that even teenagers are engaging in binge drinking. About 1 in 5 high schoolers reported drinking, as well as 1 in every 10 middle schoolers. But binge drinking has been afflicting adults heavily in Okeechobee County, too.
Living in a place that offers little help for those struggling with addiction can be hard to begin with. But things can get pretty bad without proper mental health resources might prove to be an aggravation, too. First, because addiction recovery requires mental health treatment too. And second because mental disorders can be a risk factor for people to develop an addiction.
Okeechobee, FL Recovery Meetings Near Me
- Church of our Saviour, 200 NW 3rd Street, Okeechobee, FL 34972-4125
- Lamb of God Church, 1012 South Parrott Avenue, Okeechobee, FL 34974-5268
- 17320 Short Street NE, Okeechobee, FL 34974-2823
- Okeechobee Christian Church, 3055 SE 18th Terrace, Okeechobee, FL 34974-6785
Though cases of drug overdoses are still on the rise, not much has been done to address the issue. Residents can count on many state and national initiatives that include Okeechobee residents as well. Police and law enforcement authorities have issued alerts due to the opioid crisis, and have done their best in the current situation.
Inpatient vs. Outpatient Drug and Alcohol Treatment in Okeechobee, FL
As mentioned before, Okeechobee does not have many centers for residents to pick from to begin with. Nonetheless, for those looking for inpatient treatment, there are more options available in the city. When picking between the two, however, there is a lot to take into consideration.
First, patients should choose the service setting most appropriate for their needs. This can only be defined by a proper medical assessment done by a professional. The level of addiction, as well as medical and family history are just some of the factors analyzed during the process. Once that is done, patients will know which program would be best for them. It is vital that patients do not overlook their needs when choosing a center – that should be their number one priority.
Usually, people suffering from severe symptoms of addiction can benefit more from an inpatient service setting. Being completely immersed and having 24/7 medical attention is more effective and safer in these cases. As for outpatient treatment, they tend to be more recommended for those with mild to moderate addiction symptoms. These patients won’t have to stay in the center for treatment, only having to come back for treatment sessions and activities.
Getting Help in Okeechobee, FL: Choosing the Right Facility
Once a patient finds the best service setting for them, there are other factors that should be considered. The amount of time available to dedicate to the program is another detail to be taken into account. People that need to go back to work or school might only enroll in shorter programs.
It‘s also important to look into the philosophy or “beliefs” of the center being chosen. It is ideal that they prioritize the same areas of your life that you prioritize and that their philosophies align with yours.
One final factor is finding out how you’ll pay for your program. Insurance plans can cover part of the program! You would need to check your options under your health care provider plan. In case you don’t have insurance, there are many government programs available. Medicare and Medicaid both provide coverage for addiction treatment services, you’d only need to check eligibility.
For those who may not be able to count on those options, there are other ways to make it more affordable. Payment plans are offered by many centers, as well as grants. Also, there are personal loans and credit card payments for those who can pay out-of-pocket.
Mental Health Services in Okeechobee, FL
The lack of resources in Okeechobee County might prove to be a challenge to those hoping to take care of their mental health. There are very few psychiatrists and therapists in the general area, though it is possible to find some in other cities. This is also an issue for those in need of support groups – very few available under a 20-mile radius. A bit farther than that, however, recovering addicts can find a higher number of groups in Port St. Lucie or Fort Pierce.
Having access to mental health experts and counselors is important both before and after treatment. Receiving professional help for mental health is a way to prevent substance abuse in the future. About 60% of people struggling with addiction suffer from dual diagnosis, meaning they also deal with a mental disorder. Those diagnosed and suffering from those symptoms have a higher tendency of trying to “self-medicate” with drugs or alcohol.
On the other hand, proper mental health support is very much needed for those recovering from addiction. Medical and psychiatric supervision and help are important for relapse prevention. Around half of the people who go through addiction treatment experience some level of relapse. Therefore, it is important that former patients continue psychological treatment during aftercare.
Support groups are just as important as one adapts into their routine while having to switch to a sober lifestyle. They also play an important role in making people feel understood and less alone. The emotional part of recovery will affect one’s chances of relapsing, and neglecting it can drive them back into substance abuse.
Get The Help You Need at Coastal Detox
Being in an environment where you feel there is no way to get help is a tough reality. Everyone deserves help, no matter where they are. If you are hoping to go somewhere and have a fresh, new start, we at Coastal Detox can provide just that. Our center is in Stuart, Florida, located in Florida’s Treasure Coast. The beautiful surroundings and safe neighborhood can be an ideal place to start over – either alone or with family.
Our state-of-the-art facilities are comprised of high-quality equipment and luxurious accommodations. We offer menus with chef-cooked meal options, and many options for those who want to focus on fitness and nutrition. Plus, the many therapeutic activities we offer have been proven effective for recovery treatment. From a zen garden to a Holistic Room, patients can partake in any additional activities they’d like.
If you would like to take a tour of our facilities or have any questions you want to ask, feel free to contact us today. Our team is ready to give you any information you need and to facilitate your move into our center. Recovery is possible for anyone, from any place. We hope to be the team to help you move towards a healthier, addiction-free life.
