In the fight against opioid overdoses, Narcan (naloxone) stands as one of the most powerful tools we have to save lives. Yet despite its proven effectiveness, myths and misconceptions continue to prevent people from carrying and using this life-saving medication. Let’s explore why Narcan matters and address the dangerous myths that persist.

The Local Reality: Our Northeast Florida Community

The opioid crisis isn’t just a national problem—it’s affecting our neighbors right here in Northeast Florida. The numbers tell a story of both challenge and hope:

Flagler County: According to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, Flagler County experienced 30 overdose deaths in 2023, up from 28 in 2022.

District 23 (St. Johns, Putnam, and Flagler Counties): In 2024, there were 54 deaths involving fentanyl, down from 80 in 2023—a 33% decrease that shows community intervention efforts are making a real difference.

While Florida has seen a 26% decline in opioid-related deaths statewide from 2023 to 2024, and District 23 Medical Examiner Dr. Wendolyn Sneed reports that all three counties in our region have experienced declines in overdose deaths, every single life lost still represents a family forever changed, a community member we could have saved. These numbers aren’t just statistics—they’re our neighbors, coworkers, friends, and family members.

Why Narcan Matters

Narcan is a medication that rapidly reverses opioid overdoses. When someone overdoses on opioids—whether prescription painkillers, heroin, or fentanyl—their breathing slows or stops entirely. Narcan works by blocking opioid receptors in the brain, restoring normal breathing within minutes.

The statistics are clear: Communities with widespread Narcan access see significant reductions in overdose deaths. This medication doesn’t just save lives in the moment—it gives individuals another chance at recovery, another opportunity to connect with support services, and another day with their loved ones.

Who Should Carry Narcan?

The answer is simple: anyone. If you or someone you know uses opioids, you should have Narcan available. But it’s not just for people who use substances. Family members, friends, coworkers, and community members can all play a role in preventing overdose deaths.

Debunking Dangerous Myths

Myth #1: “You can get high from Narcan”

The Truth: This is absolutely false and scientifically impossible. Narcan has zero potential for abuse because it produces no euphoric effects whatsoever. In fact, Narcan does the exact opposite of opioids—it blocks opioid receptors rather than activating them. There is no “high” to experience. Narcan only works if opioids are present in someone’s system, and even then, it simply reverses the overdose. If you give Narcan to someone who hasn’t taken opioids, nothing happens. This myth is particularly dangerous because it may cause people to hesitate in emergency situations or avoid carrying Narcan altogether.

Myth #2: “Narcan enables drug use”

The Truth: Narcan saves lives, period. Research shows that Narcan availability does not increase drug use. What it does do is provide a safety net that allows individuals to survive long enough to seek help. Recovery isn’t possible if someone doesn’t survive their overdose. In our three-county region alone, having Narcan readily available has contributed to the 33% decrease in fentanyl deaths we’ve seen from 2023 to 2024.

Myth #3: “Using Narcan is complicated and requires medical training”

The Truth: Narcan is designed for anyone to use, even without medical training. The nasal spray version is as simple as spraying into one nostril. You cannot harm someone by administering Narcan, even if they’re not experiencing an opioid overdose. As Lauren Ramirez from Salus Medical Training explains, “As soon as you put that into their nostril, it releases the opioid from their brain receptor.”

Myth #4: “Narcan makes people violent when they wake up”

The Truth: While some individuals may experience confusion or withdrawal symptoms when Narcan reverses an overdose, violent reactions are rare. The person administering Narcan should give the individual space and wait for emergency services to arrive. The temporary discomfort is far better than the alternative.

Myth #5: “One dose of Narcan is always enough”

The Truth: With the prevalence of fentanyl and other potent synthetic opioids in Northeast Florida, multiple doses of Narcan may be necessary. The 54 fentanyl-related deaths in our region in 2024 underscore how powerful these substances are. This is why it’s important to call 911 immediately, even after administering Narcan. Emergency responders can provide additional doses and medical care.

Myth #6: “Narcan is expensive and hard to get”

The Truth: Right here in Flagler and St. Johns Counties, free Narcan is readily available. Flagler Open Arms Recovery Services provides free Narcan kits and training to anyone who wants them. We also offer free Narcan distribution kiosks—The Barney Naloxone Stand—for local businesses in Flagler County. We deliver, install, and keep them full at no cost. In St. Johns County, DiscoverRecover provides similar services. Pharmacies across Florida allow you to obtain Narcan without a prescription.

Myth #7: “If someone needs Narcan, they’re beyond help”

The Truth: Needing Narcan doesn’t mean someone has failed or is hopeless. Substance use disorder is a medical condition, and overdose is a medical emergency. Many people who have been revived with Narcan have gone on to achieve long-term recovery. Every person deserves that chance.

How to Respond to an Overdose

1. Check for signs: Unresponsiveness, slow or no breathing, blue lips or fingernails, gurgling sounds
2. Call 911 immediately: Even if you have Narcan, emergency medical help is essential
3. Administer Narcan: Follow the instructions on the package—nasal spray goes in one nostril
4. Perform rescue breathing if trained: Provide oxygen while waiting for Narcan to work
5. Give a second dose if needed: If the person doesn’t respond within 2-3 minutes, give another dose
6. Stay with the person: Keep them on their side and stay until help arrives

Building Recovery-Friendly Communities in Northeast Florida

Widespread Narcan access is just one piece of building recovery-friendly communities. When we combine harm reduction tools like Narcan with education, peer support, and compassionate care, we create environments where people feel safe seeking help without fear of judgment or stigma.

The progress we’re seeing—from 80 fentanyl deaths in 2023 to 54 in 2024 in District 23—shows that our community efforts are working. Dr. Wendolyn Sneed, Medical Examiner for St. Johns, Putnam, and Flagler counties, confirms that all three counties have experienced declines in overdose deaths. But we can’t stop now. Every life matters.

At Flagler Open Arms Recovery Services, we believe every life is worth saving. We offer free Narcan training that covers the basics of Narcan administration, legal protections, the effects of opioids, and why Narcan matters to our community. No one should hesitate to carry Narcan because of myths or misinformation.

Take Action Today

• Get trained: Attend a free Narcan training session with Flagler OARS or DiscoverRecover
• Request a kiosk: If you’re a business owner in Flagler County, request a free Barney Naloxone Stand
• Carry Narcan: Keep it in your car, home, or bag—anywhere you might need it
• Share information: Help dispel myths by educating others about Narcan
• Advocate: Support policies that increase Narcan access and Good Samaritan laws
• Show compassion: Remember that behind every overdose is a person deserving of dignity and a chance at recovery

Narcan doesn’t enable addiction—it enables survival. And survival is the first step toward recovery. By understanding the truth about Narcan and rejecting harmful myths, we can all play a role in saving lives and supporting our neighbors on their journey to wellness.

Together, we can continue the progress we’re making in Northeast Florida. Contact Flagler Open Arms Recovery Services at flagleroars.org or DiscoverRecover at discoverrecover.org to learn more about Narcan training and how to make your business or organization recovery-friendly.

Human trafficking—sometimes called trafficking in persons—includes both forced labor and sex trafficking. It can happen in any community and to people of any age, background, or income level. Traffickers often use manipulation, threats, debt, isolation, or false promises to control victims.

This month is also a time to recognize the many individuals and organizations working to end trafficking: survivor advocates, law enforcement, community partners, faith communities, businesses, and everyday citizens who choose to stay informed and speak up.

Here in Florida, awareness is especially important. The National Human Trafficking Hotline publishes state-level data showing the scope of the issue. In 2023, Florida had 1,875 signals reported to the National Human Trafficking Hotline. Florida has also ranked third in the nation based on the number of human trafficking hotline reports.

In Volusia County, local government has taken steps to support awareness. Volusia County’s Human Trafficking Awareness Ordinance requires certain businesses, such as strip clubs and massage establishments, to post signage with the National Human Trafficking Hotline so victims and witnesses know where to turn.

In St. Johns County, the Florida Department of Health provides public guidance on recognizing and reporting human trafficking, including key reporting resources like the Florida Abuse Hotline.

One reality we can’t ignore: trafficking and substance use often intersect. Some research has found that 84.3% of U.S. sex trafficking survivors reported using substances while being trafficked. Traffickers may exploit existing substance use—or deliberately introduce drugs—as a tool for coercion and control, increasing dependence and making it harder for someone to leave.

That’s why it matters what happens next.

Flagler OARS and Discover and Recover St. Johns are here for people when they escape—offering a compassionate, recovery-centered path forward and helping connect individuals to the right support. If you or someone you know is trying to get safe, you are not alone.

If you suspect trafficking, trust your instincts and report what you know. You don’t have to “prove” anything—trained professionals can assess the situation. Awareness is not just a campaign; it’s a community responsibility.

If you or someone you know needs help: – National Human Trafficking Hotline: 1-888-373-7888 or text 233733 (BEFREE) – Florida Human Trafficking Hotline: 1-855-FLA-SAFE (1-855-352-7233)

The opioid crisis is hitting close to home—but there’s HOPE. Our community is seeing real progress:

THE LOCAL REALITY:
�Flagler County: 30 overdose deaths in 2023
� District 23 (St. Johns, Putnam & Flagler): Fentanyl deaths dropped from 80 in 2023 to 54 in 2024—a 33% DECREASE

Dr. Wendolyn Sneed, Medical Examiner for our counties, confirms ALL THREE counties are experiencing declines in overdose deaths But dangerous myths about Narcan still prevent people from carrying this life- saving medication.

Let’s set the record straight:
MYTH: “You can get high from Narcan” TRUTH: Scientifically IMPOSSIBLE.
Narcan has ZERO potential for abuse. It blocks opioid receptors—it doesn’t activate
them. There is no “high” to experience. If you give Narcan to someone without opioids
in their system, nothing happens.
MYTH: “Narcan enables drug use” TRUTH: Research shows Narcan availability
does NOT increase drug use. In our three-county region, having Narcan readily
available has contributed to the 33% decrease in fentanyl deaths we’ve seen from 2023
to 2024.
MYTH: “You need medical training to use Narcan” TRUTH: Anyone can use
Narcan! The nasal spray is as simple as spraying into one nostril. You can’t harm
someone by administering it.
MYTH: “Narcan is expensive and hard to get” TRUTH: FREE Narcan is available
right here!

Flagler OARS provides free Narcan kits, free training, and free distribution kiosks (The Barney Naloxone Stand) for businesses. Discover and Recover serves St. Johns County. We deliver, install, and keep them full at NO COST.

The Bottom Line: Our community went from 80 fentanyl deaths to 54—a 33% drop. Community intervention WORKS. But we can’t stop now. Narcan doesn’t enable addiction—it enables SURVIVAL. And survival is the first step toward recovery.

�� 80 → 54 fentanyl deaths (33% decrease) �� Every person deserves a chance at life
�� Every community member can be a lifesaver �� Progress is possible when we work together

Want to help save lives? �� Contact Flagler OARS for free Narcan training or to request a kiosk for your business �� flagleroars.org | discoverrecover.org

Together, we’re building a recovery-friendly Northeast Florida. ��

What Does It Mean to Be Recovery-Friendly?

A recovery-friendly community is one where individuals and families affected by substance use disorders are welcomed, supported, and empowered to thrive. It’s a place where recovery is celebrated, stigma is challenged, and everyone has access to the resources they need to heal.

Why Your Community Needs to Embrace Recovery

Recovery is everywhere. Right now, millions of Americans are in recovery from substance use disorders—your neighbors, coworkers, friends, and family members. When we create recovery-friendly spaces, we’re not helping “them”—we’re helping us.

The Impact of Stigma

Stigma kills. It prevents people from seeking help, keeps families suffering in silence, and perpetuates the misconception that addiction is a moral failing rather than a treatable health condition. When communities embrace recovery:

• People feel safe asking for help sooner
• Families find support instead of judgment
• Individuals in recovery can participate fully in community life
• Everyone benefits from reduced healthcare costs and increased public safety

What Recovery-Friendly Communities Look Like

They educate. Community members understand that addiction is a disease, recovery is possible, and support makes a difference.

They include. Businesses hire people in recovery. Schools teach evidence-based prevention. Faith communities offer welcoming spaces. Local government prioritizes recovery resources.

They celebrate. Recovery stories are shared openly. Milestones are honored. Hope replaces shame.

They support. Peer support services, Narcan training, family programs, and recovery housing are accessible to all—regardless of insurance or ability to pay.

The Ripple Effect

When one person enters recovery, entire families heal. When communities support recovery:

• Workplaces gain dedicated, loyal employees
• Crime rates decrease
• Emergency services are used more appropriately
• Children grow up in stable, healthy homes
• Economic productivity increases
• Community connections strengthen

How You Can Help

Learn. Attend a Narcan training. Listen to recovery stories. Challenge your own assumptions.

Speak up. Use person-first language. Correct stigmatizing comments. Share accurate information.

Support. Attend recovery events. Donate to recovery organizations. Advocate for recovery-friendly policies.

Welcome. Create spaces where people in recovery feel valued and included—in your workplace, your faith community, your neighborhood.

Recovery is Possible. Community Makes It Achievable.

Every person deserves the chance to recover, rebuild, and thrive. Every family deserves support, not judgment. Every community becomes stronger when recovery is embraced.

Together, we can build a community where recovery isn’t just possible—it’s celebrated.

Want to learn more about how to support recovery in Flagler  or St. Johns counties/? Contact Brock Birtolo at discoverrecover.org or Flagler Open Arms Recovery Services at www.flagleroars.org. We offer free community education, Narcan training, peer support services, and family programs. Because recovery is everyone’s business.

The event, rescheduled from Sept. 25 due to rain, is free and open to the public. Participants will walk from Wadsworth Park over the State Road 100 bridge to Veterans Park for a brief ceremony. Free T-shirts will be distributed to those who arrive by 5:15 p.m. Advanced registration is not required.

Organizers hope to bring the community together to raise awareness about the importance of mental health and the critical resources available through the 988 hotline.

“The 988 Lifeline is a critical resource that saves lives, and we want every member of our community to know help is just three numbers away,” said Bob Snyder, president of Rotary Club of Flagler Beach. “By walking together, we’re sending a powerful message that support is available and that no one has to face a crisis alone. Flagler Beach is a community that cares.”

The 988 National Suicide Crisis Hotline provides free, confidential support for individuals experiencing a mental health crisis. By dialing 988, callers are connected to trained counselors who provide immediate support and connect them with local resources. This service is crucial in preventing suicides and offering hope to those in distress. Raising awareness about the 988 hotline ensures that more people know where to turn in times of need, potentially saving lives.

Suicide ranks among the top 10 leading causes of death nationwide, resulting in approximately one death every 11 minutes. It is the second leading cause of death for people ages 10-34, the fourth leading cause for ages 35-54, and the eighth leading cause for ages 55-64.

In 2023, Flagler County recorded 21 deaths by suicide, representing a rate of 16.3 per 100,000 residents compared to Florida’s statewide rate of 15.7.

The Rotary Club of Flagler Beach is committed to addressing local needs and supporting initiatives that improve the well-being of our community members. Promoting the 988 National Suicide Crisis Hotline is an especially important initiative of Rotary Club of Flagler Beach during September, National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. Public outdoor signs promoting 988, high school poster contests, municipal proclamations, social media campaigns and other activities are among the activities planned by Rotary Club of Flagler Beach. For more information about the Rotary Club of Flagler Beach, visit www.flaglerbeachrotary.org.

A Community United for Mental Health

This meaningful event brings our Flagler community together to raise awareness about the 988 National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline—a vital resource that provides free, confidential support 24/7. We’ll gather at Wadsworth Park in Flagler Beach and walk together over the SR 100 bridge to Veterans Park for a brief ceremony.

The walk is completely free, and no advance registration is required. Simply show up ready to walk alongside your neighbors in support of mental health awareness. If possible, we encourage participants to wear purple and/or teal—the official colors of suicide prevention awareness.

Why This Matters

The numbers tell a sobering story. Suicide ranks among the top 10 leading causes of death nationwide, claiming a life approximately every 11 minutes. For young people ages 10-34, it’s the second leading cause of death. Here in Flagler County, we recorded 21 deaths by suicide in 2023—a rate of 16.3 per 100,000 residents, slightly above Florida’s statewide rate of 15.7.

But behind every statistic is a person, a family, a community impact. That’s why events like this matter so much.

The Power of 988

The 988 National Suicide Crisis Hotline is more than just a phone number—it’s a lifeline. When someone dials 988, they’re immediately connected to trained counselors who provide crisis support and connect callers with local resources. This service operates 24/7, offering hope and help when people need it most.

By raising awareness about 988, we ensure more people know where to turn during their darkest moments. Knowledge saves lives.

Join Us—Every Step Matters

Whether you’re in recovery, supporting someone who is, or simply care about mental health in our community, your presence makes a difference. Walking together sends a powerful message: no one faces their struggles alone in Flagler County.

Event Details:

• When: Thursday, September 25, 2025, at 5:30 PM
• Where: Meet at Wadsworth Park, Flagler Beach
• What: Walk over SR 100 bridge to Veterans Park
• Cost: Free
• Dress: Purple and/or teal encouraged

Together, we can break the silence around mental health struggles and ensure everyone knows that help is just three numbers away: 9-8-8.

If you or someone you know is in crisis, call or text 988 for immediate support.

Flagler OARS is committed to supporting individuals and families affected by substance use disorders and mental health challenges.

Since launching Flagler OARS in 2019, Pam has led the nonprofit in building a recovery-friendly community across Flagler County, finding new ways to support individuals and families living with substance use disorder. Under her leadership, Flagler OARS has distributed thousands of free Narcan doses, launched innovative recovery programs, and expanded lifesaving peer support services throughout the region.

Now, the torch passes to Brock Birtolo, who has served as VP of Operations for Flagler OARS since 2023 and was instrumental in opening the Discover and Recover St. Johns office earlier this year. Brock’s passion for peer-led recovery shines in every initiative, whether launching new services or connecting with individuals at the heart of their recovery journeys.

“Brock has a remarkable talent for bringing people together with purpose and compassion,” said Pam Birtolo. “His leadership at Discover and Recover St. Johns has already expanded our reach and impact. I couldn’t be more confident about the future of Flagler OARS with Brock at the helm.”

Brock is committed to building on OARS’ legacy of empathy-driven, evidence-based care. “Recovery is a community effort,” Birtolo shared. “We’re here to stand beside every individual and family, offering hope, connection, and practical support. I’m honored to follow in Pam’s footsteps and continue our mission of reducing stigma and saving lives.”

Flagler OARS now provides ongoing peer support groups, one-on-one mentoring, free Narcan distribution, and community education throughout Flagler and St. Johns counties. The organization remains dedicated to meeting people where they are—and making recovery accessible to all.

Flagler OARS currently distributes over 400 boxes of Narcan monthly and provides a variety of recovery support groups throughout Flagler County. The organization continues to work with local businesses, schools, and community organizations to expand recovery-friendly initiatives countywide. For the month of June, 2025, they provided support to 361 individuals, distributed 5,496 Narcan doses, participated in 52 events and hosted/coordinated an additional 34 events – totalling 431.75 hours – and facilitated 20 groups – fostering connection and healing.

September is National Recovery Month—a time to spotlight hope, support, and the reality that recovery from substance use and mental health challenges is possible for everyone. At Flagler OARS, we see this truth every day: recovery isn’t just getting by, it’s getting your life back.

Recovery Month’s theme, “Restoring Every Aspect of Life (REAL),” captures what we witness in our community. Recovery goes beyond stopping a substance or managing a condition. It’s about rebuilding the mind and body, mending relationships, discovering strengths, and finding meaning in each day. Recovery means learning to care for your whole self—sleep, nutrition, movement, friendships, and spirit.

The journey to wellness looks different for everyone. Some people lean on peer support and community groups; others thrive with treatment and counseling. Support from family, friends, or even a kind professional can make all the difference. What never changes is the need for connection and the deep strength it takes to reach out for help.

This month, we encourage everyone to learn more about recovery and the resources that exist right here in Flagler County. You may not know it, but many people around you are on their own recovery paths—neighbors, colleagues, friends, or family. Sometimes just knowing you’re not alone can be the first spark of hope.

Recovery is built on every small victory. It could mean making it through a day with less anxiety, reconnecting with a supportive loved one, or feeling a moment of peace. Every step forward deserves to be celebrated.
At Flagler OARS, we offer peer support, education, advocacy, and hope for our community. If you, or someone you love, is seeking recovery or wondering how to start, reach out. Whether you’re ready to join a group, talk with someone who understands, or just need a safe space for questions, we’re here. No one should walk the journey alone.

This Recovery Month, let’s honor those working toward wellness, celebrate the courage it takes, and support each other—one day at a time. Recovery is REAL, and it’s happening all around us.
Learn more, get involved, or connect with local resources at Flagler OARS. Together, we restore hope and make recovery possible for all.

Want to help support recovery in our community? Every donation makes a difference. Visit us or give online today: Donate to Flagler OARS here: https://secure.qgiv.com/for/flaopearmrec. Your contribution brings hope and healing to more local families. Thank you for being part of the journey!

#RecoveryMonth #Wellness #RecoveryIsReal #FlaglerOARS