Document Type
Portfolio
Publication Date
2024
Abstract
Significant Findings: Charlotte County in southwest Florida is a rapidly growing area for residents and vacationers alike. Although a naturally beautiful destination, excessive alcohol use is higher here than the state average, and motor vehicle crash deaths involving alcohol are significantly greater than both state and national averages (County Health Rankings & Roadmaps, 2024). Alcohol use is a contributing factor to a multitude of physical and mental illnesses, resulting in a massive economic burden on society. These negative consequences disproportionately impact marginalized populations such as LGBTQ+ community members and Hispanic males. The county can reduce this financial strain through increased prevention. Evidence-based prevention programs, education, and advocacy for marginalized groups can help lessen the adverse effects of alcohol on Charlotte County. Objectives/Strategies/Interventions/Next Steps: Prevention begins by partnering with the local school district to ensure that existing life skills programs are implemented with fidelity and available in Spanish. Increasing the availability of multilingual telehealth therapy is essential to reaching community members without access to transportation. Counselors should partner with local spiritual and religious institutions that will welcome and affirm the identities of marginalized groups such as LGBTQ+ individuals to increase the availability of alcohol prevention and treatment programs. There is a need to partner with community organizers to create opportunities for alcohol-free social activities to reduce loneliness and isolation. Counselors can work with local politicians, businesses, and community groups to advocate for stricter alcohol policies that will reduce excessive alcohol use.
