TAMPA, FLORIDA —- A treatment locator and assessment website called ATLAS was launched Thursday as a new tool in the fight against substance abuse.
Users or their families can answer an online questionnaire and receive recommendations about programs, treatments, and healthcare services based on their individual needs.
Gary Mendell with Shatterproof, an addiction recovery nonprofit, said developers worked with the American Society of Addiction Medicine in creating the tool. Shatterproof uses ATLAS in 10 other states.
EASILY FIND TREATMENT
“During a time when our nation’s addiction crisis is tragically at an all-time high and access to quality treatment is often hard to find, ATLAS is a critical new resource. When my son Brian needed addiction treatment, my family agonized trying to find him the right care. It was impossible to know who to trust,” said Gary Mendell, founder, and CEO of Shatterproof.
ATLAS will provide trustworthy information to families and those in need, putting more people on the path to recovery.
ATLAS allows users to find treatment facilities that accept their insurance easily. “Frustration is the biggest emotion that we hear first,” said Jennifer Moore, Vice President of Crisis Center of Tampa Bay. “Frustration from an individual that is unable to control their urges and feels guilt, frustration from an individual that cannot find a facility that takes their insurance.”
Treatment facilities recommended through ATLAS are vetted through Shatterproof’s National Principles of Care, including personalized plans, long-term follow-up, and access to necessary care.
CONSTANT CALLS FOR HELP
The Crisis Center in Tampa receives constant calls from friends or family members looking for help for a loved one. Unfortunately, most are overwhelmed looking for resources, according to Moore.
Florida Blue, the state’s largest health insurer, funded the launch of ATLAS in partnership with Shatterproof. Attorney General Ashley Moody spoke at the launch, citing over 107,000 Americans who died from drug overdoses last year.
“Whether you are someone struggling yourself or you’re someone who is desperately trying to save someone you love, don’t wait another minute,” Moody said.
Access the ATLAS online platform to locate treatment near you.
For immediate live assistance, Dial 2-1-1 for mental and behavioral health support.
Dial 9-8-8 if you are experiencing a mental health crisis.
You can also visit the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) website for more resources or call the national hotline 1-800-662-HELP (4357).
