South Carolina has a big issue with drug overdoses, causing the loss of many lives and hurting numerous families. Over the past few years, the state has experienced a notable rise in drug overdose deaths, which aligns with the nationwide problem of a drug overdose epidemic.
The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) reported that the total drug overdose deaths in the state went up by more than 25% from 2020 to 2021, going from 1,734 deaths to 2,168.
Robeson County : The Drug Overdoses Capital of the State
Robeson County holds the dubious distinction of being the state’s capital of drug overdoses due to having the greatest rate and quantity of drug overdose deaths among all the counties in South Carolina.
Robeson County saw 495 drug overdose visits to emergency rooms per 100,000 residents in 2020, and there were 62 overdose deaths per 100,000 residents.These figures are significantly higher than the corresponding state averages of 241 and 41.
Fentanyl is the primary cause of the spike in overdose mortality; a synthetic opioid with 50–100 times the potency of morphine.
Without the user’s knowledge, fentanyl is frequently combined with other narcotics like heroin, cocaine, or methamphetamine, which raises the possibility of a lethal overdose.In the state in 2021, fentanyl was implicated in almost two thirds of all opioid-related overdose deaths.
The COVID-19 pandemic has made the drug overdose epidemic in South Carolina worse by decreasing the quality and safety of the drug supply, increasing social isolation and stress, and altering access to treatment and recovery resources.
Many persons who battle substance use disorders have encountered extra difficulties and obstacles in their quest for the care they are entitled to.
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Official’s Efforts to Address Drug Overdoses Issue
For those impacted by substance use disorders in South Carolina, there is, still, hope and assistance accessible. In order to offer resources and support to people, families, and communities, DHEC and the South Carolina Department of Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Services (DAODAS) have been collaborating.
Among the projects and activities are the following:
- Naloxone is a drug that can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. Its availability and distribution should be increased through pharmacies, first responders, and community organizations.
- Increasing the access and utilization of medication-assisted therapy (MAT), the gold standard of care for opioid use disorder, including telehealth, mobile clinics, and peer support.
- Stepping up prevention and education initiatives, including the Just Plain Killers campaign, to increase public awareness and lessen the stigma associated with substance use disorders.
- Offering phone and web-based services and recommendations, like the DAODAS Helpline and the SC-HOPES website, to anyone in need of assistance or information.
Help should be sought as soon as possible for anyone who is experiencing a substance use issue or knows someone who is, according to DHEC and DAODAS. Asking for assistance is not a sign of weakness, and everyone can become well.
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To Conclude
South Carolina is facing a serious problem with drug overdoses, mainly because of the strong drug fentanyl, worsened by the pandemic. This issue deeply affects many families, and Robeson County serves as a clear example of how widespread the problem is. However, it’s important to know that there is hope and help available.
The Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) and the Department of Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Services (DAODAS) are working hard to address this crisis.
They provide resources such as distributing naloxone, increasing access to Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), and strengthening prevention efforts. By reducing stigma, raising awareness, and making treatment easily accessible, they aim to make a positive impact.
For those struggling with substance use disorders and their loved ones, remember that you are not alone. Reach out, use the available resources, and hold onto the hope that positive change is possible. Together, we can create a South Carolina where lives are not lost to overdoses but are empowered to heal and thrive.
