Working together against the overdose epidemic.
Lancaster County Joining Forces is a collection of organizations and individuals working to save lives and help our neighbors who are living with addiction. A partnership between organizations, coalitions, and individuals, Joining Forces serves as a convener and connector. With Penn Medicine Lancaster General Health’s support as the backbone organization, the Joining Forces collaborative regularly reviews data that assists key leaders in the community understand who is at increased risk of overdose and what interventions are needed to prevent those deaths.
What is Joining Forces?
Joining Forces is a collaborative group formed to address substance use issues within the community. It is made up of a variety of organizations, including public health agencies, local government bodies, addiction treatment centers, law enforcement, and community-based non-profits. Each organization contributes a unique perspective and set of resources: public health agencies provide data and evidence-based strategies, treatment centers offer expertise in rehabilitation and recovery services, law enforcement ensures public safety and enforces regulations, government representatives focusing on policy, and non-profits bring community outreach and support. This diverse representation allows the committee to develop comprehensive strategies that not only focus on prevention and treatment but also on long-term recovery and reducing the stigma surrounding substance use."
Joining Forces Colors
Green= Recovery and Hope: Green is commonly used to symbolize recovery and healing in the context of substance use. It represents growth, renewal, and the positive transformation that can occur through treatment and recovery. Green ribbons are sometimes used to raise awareness about addiction recovery and mental health.
Purple= Overdose Awareness: Purple ribbons are widely used to represent overdose awareness. Many organizations and campaigns, such as International Overdose Awareness Day, use the purple ribbon as a symbol to raise awareness about the risks of drug overdose, the impact on families and communities, and the importance of prevention, treatment, and recovery efforts. The purple ribbon serves as a reminder of the lives lost to overdoses and the need for continued support and action in the fight against substance use.
Understanding Substance Use Disorder in Lancaster County
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What is substance use?
Substance use refers to the consumption of alcohol, drugs, or other substances that can affect the body and mind. While occasional use may not lead to harm, repeated or excessive use can result in physical, psychological, and social consequences. Understanding the risks associated with substance use is crucial for maintaining overall health and well-being. Seeking support and information is the first step toward making informed choices.
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What does SUD stand for?
SUD stands for Substance Use Disorder. Throughout this site, we will use the abbreviation SUD to refer to this condition, helping us to provide consistent information and resources.
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What is an overdose?
An overdose occurs when a person consumes a substance (such as a drug or alcohol) in a quantity that exceeds what their body can handle, leading to harmful or life-threatening effects. Overdoses can happen accidentally or intentionally and may affect the body in various ways, including respiratory failure, unconsciousness, or organ damage. The severity of an overdose depends on factors like the type of substance, the amount consumed, and the individual's health. Immediate medical attention is crucial in the event of an overdose to prevent serious complications or death.
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Naloxone vs. Narcan
Naloxone and Narcan are often used interchangeably, but there is a distinction. Naloxone is the generic name for the medication that reverses opioid overdoses, while Narcan is a brand name for a specific nasal spray form of naloxone. Both are life-saving treatments, but Narcan offers a user-friendly, easy-to-administer option for emergency situations.
Who We Are The Forces Behind Joining Forces
A partnership between organizations, coalitions, and individuals, Joining Forces serves as a convener and connector. With Penn Medicine Lancaster General Health’s support as the backbone organization, the Joining Forces collaborative regularly reviews data. This data helps key leaders in the community understand who is at increased risk of overdose and what interventions are needed to prevent those deaths.
