Drug Overdoses

Overdose rates were on the rise before the COVID pandemic, but last year's lockdowns exacerbated the issue.

Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention show that overdose deaths last year increased nearly 30% across the country. In Florida, the rate increased more than 37%.

Experts say lockdowns and other pandemic restrictions isolated those with drug addictions and made treatment harder to get.

Officials say the pandemic and dealers who mix fentanyl with other drugs have contributed to the increase in overdose deaths in Florida.

A non-profit syringe needle exchange program in Palm Beach County says the pandemic has played a role in the spike in drug overdose deaths.

The CDC says hospitals saw a lot more emergency cases involving drug overdoses, as well as mental health crises and suicide attempts. Many emergency departments weren't ready.

Advocates say disruptions in care, job loss and increased stress and isolation due to the pandemic are fueling substance abuse problems.

During Substance Abuse Prevention Month, a campaign is distributing thousands of drug disposal pouches, enough to destroy more than 1 million pills.

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By Christine Sexton / News Service of Florida The number of drug-related deaths in Florida, including those caused by opioids, declined in the first six...