Resources for Families Coping with Mental Health & Substance Use Disorders

 

Families share an important bond that can be used to support one another during challenging times, such as when a loved one is drinking too much, using drugs, or dealing with mental health or substance use disorders. 

Often, family members are the first to notice when loved ones are experiencing changes in mood or behavior. When adolescents start behaving differently for no apparent reason - such as acting withdrawn, being unusually tired, depressed, or hostile - it could be a sign they are developing a drug-related problem.

Other telltale signs and behaviors associated with substance use and related problems may include: a change in peer group - being careless with grooming - decline in academic performance - missing classes or skipping school - loss of interest in favorite activities - trouble in school or with the law - changes in eating/sleeping habits - deteriorating relationships with family & friends.   

It can be difficult to support a loved one through a struggle with substance abuse. The process can be further complicated when the person refuses to accept help. This is when it's important to reach out to connect with helpful resources and services, while also continuing to provide love and support. 

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) operates a National Helpline 1-800-662-HELP (4357) - a free and confidential treatment referral and information service that is available 24/7, 365 days-a-year in English and Spanish.

SAMHSA also offers online resources for families who are coping with mental and substance use disorders. To access resources, visit: https://www.samhsa.gov/mental-health/children-and-families/coping-resources and find treatment options:  https://www.samhsa.gov/find-treatment

  

Remember, always call 9-1-1 if someone is experiencing an overdose, mental health crisis, or other serious emergency.

Nicotine Pouches: A Growing Danger to Young Children

 

If you or someone you know has tried to quit smoking, you have likely heard about Nicotine Pouches. Now, a new study published in Pediatrics, a journal of the American Academy of Pediatrics, shows nicotine pouches are becoming a growing source of nicotine poisoning among young children in cases reported to U.S. poison control centers - mostly since 2016.

From 2010 to 2023, U.S. Poison Control Centers reported 134,663 cases of nicotine poisonings among children under the age of 6 who accidently ingested nicotine. Cases included exposures to nicotine in various ways including pouches, chewing tobacco, regular cigarettes, vapes, and nicotine replacement products like gum and lozenges. Researchers found that nicotine pouches, like the popular brand Zyn, are behind the most significant rise in accidental nicotine poisonings among young children.

New research showed a rise from 0.48 per 100,000 children in 2020 to 4.14 per 100,000 in 2023 - an increase of 763% in just 3 years. Findings correlate with a surge in the sales of nicotine pouches that are appealing to youth because they typically contain mint and fruit flavorings that taste good.

Nicotine is a chemical that is highly toxic - it increases heart rate and blood pressure and could lead to nausea, vomiting, or even coma. Researchers also reported other side effects, such as trouble breathing and seizures.

It is critical that we continue to educate parents, childcare workers, and healthcare providers about the health risks associated with use of these products among children. Babies and toddlers are most vulnerable since they tend to explore their world by putting things in their mouth and canisters containing nicotine pouches are not child-resistant. 

Teens are also drawn to this product because use is relatively easy to hide from parents. Parents should talk to their kids about products like this and continue open dialogue in a nonjudgmental way in order to ascertain any risk. It's also a good idea to keep the national, toll-free Poison Help Line phone number handy at home and on your cellphone - 1-800-222-1222.

Read about Nicotine Ingestions Among Young Children

https://publications.aap.org/pediatrics/article-abstract/doi/10.1542/peds.2024-070522/202640/Nicotine-Ingestions-Among-Young-Children-2010-2023? 

View an NBC News health report on the Study

https://www.nbcnews.com/health/health-news/nicotine-patch-poisonings-children-vape-liquid-warning-rcna218262

Hot Tips for Staying Active in Summer Heat

 

This time of year offers great opportunities for your whole family to be active and connect while enjoying the warm summer sun. Outdoor exercise is beneficial for your heart, muscles, and bones and it is also a healthy boost for your mind and spirit. Heat, humidity, and high temps can put extra strain on your body causing you to sweat and breathe more heavily. 

Don't let the summer heat melt your motivation - here's some hot tips to look cool and stay active whether you're at the beach, exploring nature trails, or enjoying your favorite outdoor activities.

Dress for Weather - clothing can help you beat the summer heat. Choose lightweight fabrics that wick moisture away from your skin. Use a head-covering like a hat made of breathable material or a visor to keep the sun off your face. Consider a portable battery-operated fan that attaches to the brim of a hat/visor or can be hung around your neck.

Seek Shade - local parks often offer shaded nature walks, bike paths, and trails that provide protection from the hot sun. Morning and late evening are the best time to be outdoors and avoid the heat of the day.

Scale Back - when summer heat is at its highest, be sure to scale back on strenuous activities and training. Opt for short bouts of outdoor exercise and strive for consistency rather than intensity.

Stay Hydrated - keep a water bottle filled and sip as you work throughout the day. Aim to drink 8-12 ounces of fluids every 20 minutes while exercising. Add zing to your water with a splash of lemon, lime, or fruit juices to liven up the flavors.

Most of all, remember to apply sunscreen and enjoy summer fun! 🌞

Embrace Optimism & Power of Positive Thinking

 

Positive vibes on a sunlit Friday offer a great opportunity to embrace optimism. We appreciate our friends @ Positively Present for sharing this bright graphic to inspire positive thinking. As suggested in the words contained within the sun's rays, "Optimism isn't an escape from reality. It's an arrival at a place that already exists in your mind. A place where you can see possibilities, discover hope, and seek positive change."🌞

Winston Churchill was a firm believer in being the optimist who sees the opportunity in every difficulty. Optimism does not mean living in a fantasy world or turning a blind eye to reality. Instead, it can be a tool to help balance our perspective.⚖ 

Start by focusing on mindfulness and strength to reframe any negative thoughts. This type of proactive mindset can help us learn to embrace what's possible and see challenges as opportunities for growth and success.

In many ways, optimism may be just what we need in today's fast-paced and uncertain world. It can be a true light to help brighten the path to positive change by believing in what is possible as we continue to actively seek solutions.💡

We All Have a Duty to Drive Safe This Summer!

 

According to AAA, accidents involving teen drivers spike this time of year - especially the time from Memorial Day to Labor Day that safety experts often refer to as the "100 Deadliest Days of Summer." In Florida, the danger doesn't just start in the summer but continues year-round due to our area's constant mix of out-of-town drivers, older drivers, and inexperienced teen drivers - a perfect storm of risk factors.

We all have a duty to drive safely. When it comes to teens, overconfidence can be common because although youth feel ready to drive, their inexperience behind the wheel can result in slower reaction times. Underdeveloped judgment is also a biological reality because the part of the brain responsible for impulse control and decision-making (the prefrontal cortex) does not fully mature until the mid-20s. Peer passengers add risk and distractions from phone and loud music raise the odds of something going wrong. Speeding makes things worse - the faster you go, the less time you have to react. Driving under the influence of alcohol, marijuana, or even over-the-counter medication increases the dangers - impairment begins with the first drink/dose - it doesn't take much to lose focus or control of the vehicle.

Don't stop parenting when your teen gets behind the wheel - this is when your guidance matters most to help your teen become a safe driver. Set clear rules about where, when, and with whom your teen can drive. Model good driving behavior and ride along often, even after they get their license. Point out strategies for handling emergencies and making tough choices.

As part of their social norms campaigns shared with youth in our community, UthMpact teen leaders have developed a "Your Future is Deer!" message to remind peers of important safety measures to follow before they get behind the wheel. The focus is on driving responsibly and defensively - most of all, NOT driving distracted. When on the roads, buckle up, obey the speed limit, and never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs. This also includes riding in a car driven by an impaired driver. We want you to stay safe this summer!

Today’s a Great Day to Start a Conversation About Drugs & Health

 

Summer break offers well-deserved down time but as most parents and caregivers know, the job of parenting never really takes a day off because our kids' health and safety is always top priority.

InnerAct Alliance and the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) encourage parents to take opportunities over the summer to have important conversations with teens about their health using simple facts and evidence-based information. NIDA has compiled a list of answers to teens' 10 most frequently asked questions about drugs to use as conversation starters and inspire communication with your children.

Kids can be curious about why some people use drugs - the best way to answer is to explain we all make choices that affect our health. Some think substances may help them deal with challenges, escape from reality, relieve pain, or fit in with others. Even when users want to quit, they may still struggle to stop using alcohol and other drugs. This is because repeated use causes changes in the brain that make it hard to stop.

Addictive drugs can cause the brain to release dopamine, a chemical released after pleasurable and satisfying activities. Repeated drug use floods the brain with dopamine and can change how the brain responds - this often results in needing more drugs to produce the same effect. Without more drugs, people may experience withdrawal symptoms causing stress, anxiety, depression, or physical effects like sweating, vomiting, and pain. This dangerous cycle of drug use and withdrawal can disrupt normal brain function so that people aren't able to experience pleasure in their lives and more drugs are needed.

The best way to avoid substance use disorder is not to ever start. Share the good news that most Polk County teens are making the right choices by choosing not to drink, smoke, or use substances. Knowing the truth can help kids avoid succumbing to peer pressure because they feel confident in making more informed personal decisions after knowing and considering all he facts. 

For answers to questions teens
may have about substance use visit:

https://nida.nih.gov/research-topics/education/conversation-starters/10-questions-teens-ask-about-drugs-and-health

 

Save the Date: IAA’s Red Ribbon Run on October 25th

 

Exciting plans are coming together for InnerAct Alliance's Red Ribbon Campaign in our community this fall to prevent harm and promote health. The 2025 Red Ribbon Run, presented by Title Sponsor Publix Super Markets, will take place on Saturday, October 25th with FREE REGISTRATION for the Kids Fun Run for K-8 Students, along with a Family Fun Run for parents/adults to run or walk with their children ($5 fee). Participants will be treated to healthy snacks, fitness activities, and festive entertainment celebrating different cultures in the Florida Dairy Farmers World Tour vendor area at beautiful Lake Mirror in Lakeland. Plus, we will be celebrating InnerAct Alliance's 40th "Ruby" Anniversary!

Awesome Business Sponsorship Opportunities available! - the Red Ribbon Run presents a great opportunity for local businesses to support prevention of substance abuse, sponsor a race heat, and promote their products and services by sponsoring a booth. Contact Angie Ellison, IAA Executive Director, at (863) 802-0777 for more details!

Share your Talents & Create International Displays! - individuals and groups are invited to showcase their unique talents in music, dance, and performance as part of the Florida Dairy Farmers World Tour celebration of different cultures and traditions during the Red Ribbon Run festivities. Call the IAA office at 802-0777 for more information!

Plan to bring the whole family to the 2025 Red Ribbon Run to support substance abuse prevention in our community. Stay tuned for registration details and information to be announced soon on the InnerAct Alliance website and social media.

Event Website

www.inneractalliance.org

Visit Us on Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/InnerActAlliance/

Channel Our Own Personal Freedom

 

After a holiday weekend celebrating our nation's freedom, let's start this week off with some sage advice from our friends @Positively Present to: "Stop giving your strength, time, and resources to things and people you wish to be free from." Learn to channel our own personal freedom and be mindful not to give our time and energy to people, situations, and things that don't deserve it!

Self-love and acceptance is our own responsibility. Don't expect others who treat you less to suddenly have a change of heart...a zebra doesn't change it stripes. Stop looking back on difficult things that have happened in your life because that action only continues to keep it alive within you. Stop worrying about things that haven't happened yet because more than likely they won't. All of these actions are a waste of precious time and energy.💪

Live in the moment and give yourself the love and kindness you deserve.💜 You and only you are in charge of your happiness. To put it in the hands of others is to give away your energy and your power. 

Happy 249th Birthday America

 

Independence Day is celebrated each year on July 4. This year, America will celebrate its 249th birthday to commemorate our independence from Great Britain following the Revolutionary War. On this date in 1776, the Continental Congress approved the final wording of the Declaration of Independence for our country to become the United States of America!

Fireworks displays are usually the highlight of many Independence Day celebrations with colors lighting up the night sky across the U.S.🎆 According to the Farmers' Almanac, the origins of fireworks originally came from China - but the earliest forms of "firecrackers" 🧨 came from a discovery almost 2,000 years ago when people would heat bamboo stalks until they were blacked and exploded under the pressure of heated air inside them.

Fireworks have been part of the American tradition since the founding of our nation. John Adams envisioned great celebrations when he wrote a letter on July 3, 1776 - a day before the Continental Congress adopted the final draft of the Declaration of Independence - saying that festivities should include "pomp and parade with shews (shows), games, sports, funs, bells, bonfires, and illuminations from one end of the continent to the other from this time forever more." 

The first official fireworks displays began in 1777 with the first Fourth of July fireworks over Philadelphia's night sky - a tradition that continues with spectacular fireworks on every July 4 celebration.🎇

Wishing you & your family a Happy 4th of July!

Please celebrate Safely & Responsibly
Do Not Drink & Drive!

Independence Day Events in our Area
Thanks to our friends at Lakeland Mom

https://lakelandmom.com/4th-of-july-fireworks-lakeland-polk-county/?utm_content=link_id&utm_medium=email&utm_source=flodesk

Recent Study Shows Disposable Vapes More Toxic than Cigarettes

 

A recent article featured in Fox News Health reports findings from a study at the University of California (UC) Davis that shows illegal disposable cigarettes, a/k/a vapes, may present a greater danger than traditional cigarettes due to their extremely high concentrations of metal.

As part of the study, researchers tested the vapor puffs from 3 popular vape brands - Elf Bar, Flum Pebble, and Esco - sold by retailers (but not FDA-authorized for use in the U.S.) and found hazardous levels of toxic heavy metals, including lead, nickel, and antimony. These metals are classified as carcinogens that may lead to skin, lung, and kidney cancers, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH). One of the brands tested in this study was found to expose users to as much lead as smoking 19 packs of cigarettes.

A senior study author, Brett Pouin, assistant professor at the UC Davis Dept. of Environmental Technology, said that he was shocked at the levels of toxic metals found in the vapors tested saying, "When I analyzed the first samples, the lead concentration was so high that I thought the (testing) instrument was broken. Levels far exceeded anything in past data or even in the published literature." 

Regarding the high concentrations of metal, Poulin warned that there is no known safe level of lead exposure and shared, "This neurotoxin poses serious health risks, particularly to children and adolescents, who are especially vulnerable."

Many medical professionals agree with the need to inform users about the health risks of vaping associated with various lung diseases including asthma, COPD, and lung cancer. In addition, there are many recommendations calling for disposable vapes to be closely regulated by local, state, and federal agencies and for the need to add printed warnings on packaging for disposable vapes to outline health risks of use, especially to teens and young adults.

Statistics show that electronic cigarette use among adults increased from 4.5% in 2019 to 6.5% in 2023, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The CDC also noted that 15.5% of young adults between the ages of 21-24 have reported using e-cigarettes. 

To read more on the UC study, click:

https://www.foxnews.com/health/disposable-vapes-more-toxic-carcinogenic-than-cigarettes-study-shows

Mentors Can Help Build Confidence & Reduce Risk of Substance Use

 

Growing up in today's world can be challenging for teens and young adults - and it can be equally overwhelming for parents. It can help to have even one more trusted adult outside of a parent or guardian to support your child as they grow.

The mentor relationship is not meant to replace a parent; in fact, it offers the benefit of having another positive, stable adult in your child's life. This can even help to improve the relationships between teens and parents by offering more guidance and stability for them.

A mentor is someone who offers support and models good values. The right mentor paired with your child during his or her critical period of development - whether it's a teacher, coach, community leader, or family friend - can make a huge difference to help bring out their confidence and improve self-esteem while offering strong protection from risky behaviors, including substance use.

Mentors help kids flourish by:

*Boosting confidence and self-esteem - a young person's development is rooted in their community and in their relationships. Having another adult to listen to and support them can be a tremendous benefit for youth and improve overall wellbeing.

*Reducing the likelihood of substance use and depressive symptoms - in reality, all teens face risk factors for developing a substance use disorder. Many times, it can be linked to family history and we know that environment can also trigger addiction. Having a trusting adult to turn to can help counter the risks and act as a powerful protective factor.

*Improving academic performance and mental health - studies show that one of the strongest benefits of mentoring, regardless of a teen's background, is reducing depressive symptoms. When youth know that they have "someone in their corner" who they trust and can talk to, it can go a long way to help them develop a better sense of safety, trust, and belonging.

*Strengthening coping, life skills, and problem-solving abilities - mentors can help kids handle challenges with family, friends, and school by teaching life skills, offering healthy coping strategies, and building confidence - critical skills that all teens need to be resilient and to succeed in life.

For more about the benefits of the mentor/teen relationship, check out this fantastic article from the Partnership to End Addiction:

https://drugfree.org/article/why-your-teen-needs-a-mentor-building-confidence-and-reducing-risk-of-substance-use/?

Summer Health & Wellness

 

Summertime has a generally more relaxing vibe but sometimes changes from the regular routine can create challenges too. InnerAct Alliance encourages families to continue to practice self-care and reach out for support from available resources when needed. 

Here are some tips on how children, parents, and families can thrive physically, mentally, and emotionally during the summer months and all year-round:

Physical Wellness 💪 - staying physically active and eating well has been shown to improve mental health and wellness. Some suggestions to accomplish this may be: exercising regularly with a friend or workout group; joining a swim, dance, or yoga class; spending time outdoors daily; and walking/running when it's cooler in the mornings or late evenings. It's also the perfect time to embrace the abundance of refreshing summer fruit and veggies to encourage healthy eating habits in your diet. Make sure to get quality rest and sleep and establish priorities to keep the days productive.

Mental Wellness 🧠- practicing wellness activities can help to overcome stress and anxiety and promote productivity. Take time to try self-soothing activities like mindfulness and meditation or creative activities like art, music, reading, or journaling.

Embrace Support 💜- when we feel stressed, tired, overwhelmed, or alone, it's important to identify support that's available to help you overcome any challenges. Communicate your needs to a trusted friend or family member...or seek out a support group, therapy, or counseling. 

Stay Connected 👪 - summertime offers a different daily routine so do your best to stay connected to those who impact you in positive and healthy ways. Plan to enjoy family time, friend hangouts, volunteer, arrange a game or movie night, send letters or postcards, maybe even join a book club or sports team.

Even small changes can improve overall mood, so take advantage of the long sunny days and warm weather to switch up your routine, be more active, and enjoy what the season has to offer. Wishing you a happy summer and a season of proactive self-care! 🌞

What’s All The Buzz About Cannabis Drinks

 

Researchers warn about the growing popularity of drinks infused with Delta-9 THC, the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis plants that makes users feel high or relaxed. Although the FDA has not approved THC or CBD to be added to food or sold as dietary supplements, it is projected that THC beverages may become a $4 billion industry by 2028. This is raising some health concerns including that colorful packaging and fruit flavors may increase their appeal to children.

In an article published in Harvard Medical Schools' Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. Staci Gruber, an associate professor of psychiatry at Harvard Medical School, shared that as many young adults move away from alcohol, a new category of cannabis-infused beverages is gaining momentum. As Dr. Gruber, who also directs Marijuana Investigations for Neuroscientific Discovery (MIND) at McLean Hospital explained, "Some people are turning to cannabis drinks as part of the 'Cali sober' trend that seeks alternatives to alcoholic beverages and avoids drug use other than cannabis."  

Cannabis (marijuana) comes from the Cannabis sativa plant, which contains more than 100 chemical compounds that interact with chemicals and receptors in the brain. According to the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, THC or Delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol, is a psychoactive compound found in marijuana that produces intoxication or euphoria. Another is cannabidiol (CBD), which is not intoxicating.

Varieties of cannabis that contain low levels of THC (less than 0.3%) are classified as hemp - those with more than 0.3% THC are considered cannabis. However, these infused drinks come with varying percentages of THC per serving - and their labels may not necessarily be accurate. Some "low-dose" cannabis-infused beverages may contain 2-4mg. of THC in an 8-ounce container. Others may contain as much as 200 mg. of THC. The drinks can affect people in varying ways and may also contain caffeine, alcohol, or other substances. State laws vary on if and where drinks like this can be sold, as well as on age restrictions for sale.

Dr. Gruber provided additional details about beverages that offer another means of cannabis consumption saying, "Cannabinoids found in beverage are specially-formulated to dissolve in liquid, so they may be more easily absorbed into the body's soft tissues. People may feel effects within 15-20 minutes. What is concerning is that people tend to be less familiar with the effects of cannabis and cannabis-infused beverages, so they may down one drink and not wait long enough to feel the effects before having additional drinks - doubling or tripling the THC dose very quickly. The concern is that there are generally more unknown with cannabis drinks and you can never really know how a particular product may affect you."

Consumers need to educate themselves about cannabis-infused beverages. Learn about the ingredients and potential side effects that may include increased heart rate, nausea, and feelings of anxiousness and paranoia. 

Read: https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/cannabis-drinks-how-do-they-compare-to-alcohol-202407153058

Follow InnerAct Alliance on Social Media

 

Next time you are surfing the web, please visit our website

www.inneractalliance.org

and


Follow us on Social Media

https://www.facebook.com/InnerActAlliance?

https://www.facebook.com/UthMpactPolk?

https://www.facebook.com/owntheupsidepolk

https://www.facebook.com/ProjectPromofPolk

 

Heat’s Effect on Mental Health and Wellbeing

 

People may not realize that summer heat can play a role in mental health and wellness. Hot temperatures and humidity can adversely affect the most vulnerable members of the population in the extremes of ages - babies and young children as well as older adults age 65 & older. Both may be at risk since they may be less likely to sense and respond to changes in temperature.

Heat can affect older people due to medications they may be taking and how their bodies are able to adapt to and regulate heat. High temperatures can increase potential side effects of medicines and toxicity levels in the body. Physical implications may also bring on heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. Staying properly hydrated is very important along with good nutrition and daily gentle exercise and movement.

The American Psychiatric Association lists mental implications of suffering from extreme heat as trouble sleeping, irritability or increased incidents of aggression, suicide, and substance abuse. Other signs to look for when it comes to someone being adversely affected by the heat, shared by the National Institutes of Health, may include: sadness, anxiousness, feelings of hopelessness or helplessness. Older Adults may not be themselves - showing physical symptoms like decreased energy or fatigue or loss of interest in doing everyday things.

Mental health and wellbeing affect all of us so it's important to be understanding, show empathy, watch out for each other, and reach out for help when it is needed. Locally, the Peace River Center offers a broad range of mental health, victim services, and substance use disorder services throughout Polk, Highlands, and Hardee counties for those who may be in need.

https://www.peacerivercenter.org

 

Carfentanil: A Dangerous New Factor in the Opioid Crisis

 

Over the past two decades, synthetic opioids have increased the threat of the ongoing opioid epidemic. Nearly 70% of all drug poisonings and overdose deaths in 2023 involved synthetic opioids, primarily fentanyl. Also, among these substances is Carfentanil which stands out at this time as one of the deadliest fentanyl analogues. This white, powdery drug closely resembles other substances like fentanyl or cocaine, but its danger far exceeds that of nearly any other opioid on the street.

Carfentanil is a synthetic opioid originally developed for veterinary use to tranquilize large animals. It's very potent and not approved for human use. In fact, it is estimated to be 10,000 times more potent than morphine and 100 times stronger than fentanyl. Recently, there's been an increased presence of carfentanil in the illicit drug market - a tiny .02mg can induce a powerful, often deadly effect in humans. According to the CDC, deaths involving carfentanil increased approximately sevenfold - from 29 deaths in January-June 2023 to 238 deaths in January-June 2024. The majority of carfentanil seizures throughout 2024 were in a pill or tablet form, not the typical powder form previously encountered.

The recent Carfentanil Trend is concerning due to: increased risk of overdose (extreme potency increases risk of overdose and death - even a single pill) and deceptive appearance (carfentanil pressed into pills resembles prescription medications leading to consumption by individuals who believe they are taking a less potent drug).   

Exposure to carfentanil can cause respiratory depression or arrest, drowsiness, sedation, pinpoint pupils, disorientation, and clammy skin. Its rapid effect on the central nervous system leaves little time for life-saving interventions. Naloxone may not be effective. Awareness is critical to preventing overdoses and poisonings involving synthetic opioids. Anyone who may encounter illicit substances including powders and fake pills, should be aware of the potential presence of carfentanil.

Investigations Lead to Largest Fentanyl Seizure in Polk County History

 

In local news, 8 suspects linked to the Mexican-based Sinaloa and Jalisco cartels have been arrested accused of trafficking 64 pounds of Fentanyl, worth $4.5 million, into Florida and Arizona. Two separate multi-agency undercover investigations into Fentanyl drug trafficking, led by the Polk County Sheriff's Office High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) Task Force, have resulted in a law enforcement seizure of 29 pounds of Fentanyl during investigation of the Jalisco Cartel and 35 pounds of Fentanyl from the Sinaloa Cartel. These back-to-back operations underscore the ongoing threat posted by international drug trafficking organizations.

Sheriff Grady Judd shared that the Fentanyl found was packaged in compact bricks labeled with numbers and names like "Cartoon Network" to mask the content hidden inside of hollowed-out car batteries. Early on, detectives said they coordinated shipments of pills and powder. Judd said the major operation took them to stash houses and drug operations also in Daytona Beach and Atlanta. All suspects now face charges linked to trafficking Fentanyl and conspiracy to traffic the drug. According to the Sheriff, "These people are violent, these people want your money, and they don't care whether or not they take your life."

On the impact of this potent drug on our local neighborhoods, Sheriff Judd said, "We do have a crisis - when 340,000 people have died of Fentanyl overdose between 2018-2023 in the United States. This is the largest seizure of Fentanyl in Polk County to date - in just these two investigations, my detectives seized 64 pounds of Fentanyl, which is enough to kill millions of people. We will continue to go after these criminals to reduce the flow of these deadly drugs into the U.S. and Florida." 

The investigation was conducted through the State Financial Assistance for Fentanyl Eradication (S.A.F.E.) Florida Program. In 2023, the Florida Legislature established funding for the S.A.F.E. program to help conduct investigations specifically to combat illegal Fentanyl trafficking. We appreciate the Polk Sheriff's Office and local law enforcement for continuing to be vigilant and act to keep our community safe.

Read more:
https://www.polksheriff.org/news-investigations/polk-county-news/2025/06/24/eight-suspects-arrested-and-64-pounds-of-fentanyl-worth-$4.5-million-seized-in-two-separate-fentanyl-drug-trafficking-investigations-largest-seizure-in-polk-county-s-history

View the Media Conference on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1kSllnjbOEU&ab_channel=FOX13TampaBay

Emerging Drug Alert: Pink Cocaine the U.S.

 

New and more potent drugs seem to enter the illicit drug supply every day. The Florida Alcohol and Drug Abuse Association (FADAA) recently issued a substance use trend alert about an illicit drug made from a mixture of substances that Florida residents should be aware of.

What is Pink Cocaine (Tusi) and why is it dangerous? - Pink Cocaine, aka "tusi" (2C) has increased in popularity among young people who think it's a party drug like cocaine or molly. According to the DEA, pink cocaine is a powdered mix of substances that produce mind-altering, hallucinogenic effects. Pink cocaine may seem less harmful because of its colorful appearance, but it's far from safe. Lab testing has identified that the pink powder may contain a combination of substances including ketamine, mixed with MDMA (aka molly or ecstasy), methamphetamine, caffeine, and other mind-altering substances. It may also contain opioids, bath salts, LSD, and mescaline - combinations that can be very dangerous because users are ingesting an unknown mixture of depressants and stimulants that give conflicting messages to the body. 

Pink Cocaine in Florida - in 2024, the Miami-Dade Medical Examiner reported occurrences of pink cocaine in overdose deaths in South Florida. Twelve counties in the U.S. had the highest EMS encounters for nonfatal tusi-related overdoses from January 2022-February 2025, with 30 tusi-related overdoses reported in Hillsborough and Miami-Dade counties. 

Stay informed about emerging drug threats to educate yourself and your children. 

FADAA Alert Link:

https://cdn.ymaws.com/www.fadaa.org/resource/resmgr/files/resource_center/reports/TA6_PinkCocaine.pdf  

  

UthMpact Leadership Class XV is Off to a Great Start

 

UthMpact Leadership Class XV's new executive board members came together for their Annual Leadership Retreat earlier this month. 

Members of the exec board include: Kendall Castano (President); Audra Ezell (Vice President); Gioselin Oropeza (Secretary); Colton Hance (Treasurer); Hannah Hendrix and Delaney Pieske (Historians); Bryce Dhue (Sergeant-at-Arms). These impressive student leaders were provided with opportunities to practice their public speaking skills and spend time planning the busy agenda for the year ahead.

On Day 1 of the Retreat, warm-up activities began with breaking into small groups to create posters to outline challenges they see within their own schools and friends groups. Lunch break provided the fuel to begin brainstorming ideas for the UthMpact Podcast which will be ramping back up soon.

During a busy Day 2, teen leaders visited the IAA office to learn their way around the broadcasting equipment and polish their speaking skills for the podcast. Watch for the 1st podcast of the season at: https://www.instagram.com/thempactpodcast/

Rounding out Day 3, the executive board focused on planning for future UthMpact Class XV activities including monthly Leadership Days when the group travels throughout the county to experience the inner workings of local business, government, healthcare, education, law enforcement and volunteerism.

UthMpact is the dynamic youth coalition committed to helping educate and deliver substance abuse prevention messages to teens by their peers. Goals include positive community engagement; changing stereotypes about teen drug use by volunteering, informing, and being educated; and setting examples for other teens by encouraging alcohol and tobacco prevention and cessation while sharing true facts about substances through social norms. We wish UthMpact Leadership Class XV a fun and productive year ahead!

Healthy Thoughts Can Cure Mind & Body

 

Scientific studies suggest that our minds can play an important role in healing our bodies. It is interesting to explore how mental perception of the world can inform and guide the immune system and how the body responds. 

We know our minds and bodies are connected - when we are not feeling at our best mentally, many times doing some type of physical activity can help enhance our mood. Similarly, adjusting our outlook with positive thinking and a healthy mindset may help boost our physical health too.

Practice using your mind to strengthen your body:

Embrace optimism for a more hopeful outlook

Try Meditation to ward off stress

Laugh more to release positive hormones

Focus on positive perception

Make each day count

Work toward what you believe in

Feel gratitude

Realize what's important in life

Honoring Freedom on Juneteenth

 

Juneteenth is the oldest nationally-celebrated commemoration to mark the final end of slavery when the last of the enslaved people learned of their freedom in America. It is also known as Freedom Day, Juneteenth National Independence Day, or Emancipation Day.

After the Emancipation Proclamation was issued to free American slaves in the Confederate states in 1863, it took a while for slaves in isolated areas to hear the news. Some slave owners kept word from those they had enslaved so they would not flee. But, on June 19, 1865, Union soldiers reached Galveston, Texas to deliver the message that the war was over so all slaves would know of their freedom.

Juneteenth honors African Americans who helped to build this nation. In 2021, President Biden signed the Juneteenth National Independence Act establishing June 19 as a federal holiday. The day's celebrations often include prayer and religious services, educational events, family gatherings, and events with food, music, and dancing. It is a reminder of the long fight for freedom and the work we must continue to do to build a better future with liberty and justice for all.

IAA in Our Community Sharing Anti-Bullying & Social Norms

 

InnerAct Alliance enjoys traveling throughout our community to share prevention messages with youth. This week, Ms. Tammy visited Crystal's World of Dance Summer Dance Camp to meet with campers and talk about anti-bullying and social norms. It was a fun experience to see the kids enjoy learning dance techniques and developing life skills, all while increasing their overall knowledge and confidence. Don't you think they look cool wearing Red Ribbon Run and Be a Commander, Not a Bystander T-Shirts?!

And...if you're out and about on this beautiful Wednesday, stop by the Florida Children's Museum at Bonnet Springs to say hello at the InnerAct Alliance display table and learn the facts about anti-bullying and social norms. Ms. Tammy and our team always enjoy meeting children and families and hope to see some energetic day camp groups visit Bonnet Springs today!

If you'd like to invite IAA's Outreach Team to your event, call us at 802-0777!