Health & Wellness

Opioid Crisis Intensifies: Urgent Call to Action from GNR Health to Combat Addiction and Overdoses

Published

1 year ago

August 23, 2023

Tom Branch, opioid surveillance and prevention specialist for Gwinnett Newton Rockdale Public Health, shows the components of the Narcan kits available to the public to help prevent opioid overdoses.

Although the opioid crisis hasn’t dominated the major headlines recently, its scale and scope haven’t waned; in fact, it’s worsening. A new study highlighted in July in the Harvard Gazette showed that without public health interventions, the number of overdose deaths will continue to rise.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services reported that nationwide overdose deaths hit 68,000 in 2020 and rose to more than 80,000 by 2021. The data for 2022 has yet to be released, but researchers believe that number will hit six figures.

To increase awareness and help combat the dilemma locally, the Southwest Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce (SWGC) invited Tom Branch, Opioid Surveillance and Prevention Specialist with Gwinnett, Newton, and Rockdale Public Health (GNR Public Health), to its July Coffee Connections Spotlight Series to discuss the root causes of opioid addiction and ways to help reduce the number of deaths.

“We like to go around the community and open people’s eyes to the opioid crisis,” stated Branch. “It’s happening everywhere; it’s not limited to the homeless person living under the bridge. That’s the scary part about it.”

Branch shared that even though he’s been a lifesaving first responder in law enforcement and the fire department, he has a family member who fell victim to opioids.

“My son is four years into recovery now. So, I can tell you, just from a stepdad’s point of view, that it took him four times. But he’s been clean for four years now, and we’re so proud,” said Branch.

Escalating drug overdoses

To put the predicament into a historical perspective, Branch pointed out that in 1991, the CDC started seeing a substantial number of overdose deaths. This increased into 2010.

“The heroin crisis really opened people’s eyes,” he said.

In 2018, the federal government allocated $1 billion for the opioid crisis and distributed it throughout the United States. That year, the state of Georgia received its share and distributed it to 18 different health districts. “All 18 districts have a person like me working within their group,” said Branch.

GNR Director Dr. Audrey Arona searched for about six months before coaxing Branch out of retirement. When he first started, health officials had no idea that this emergency would balloon as it has.

“In 2018, they knew something was going on. The last good statistics we have are from 2021, and you can see heroin just leveled out. But opioids and other drug overdose deaths just went through the roof,” Branch noted.

That led to the creation of the Overdose Map (OD Map). Now Branch’s number one duty is to partner with law enforcement to track where and when overdoses occur.

“It shows where the drugs are being sold,” said Branch. “Most people buy a drug, and they don’t go far to use it. And if they do die or overdose, we want to know where it is. This map helps law enforcement target dealers, but it also helps prevention and treatment specialists know where they can put resources.

“If we have a hotspot in a different area and it happens certain times of the year, certain times of the month, or certain times of the day, we can interject law enforcement to go in one day, and then the next day, so prevention people can go in and try to figure out who these people are who need help,” Branch stated.

Branch is part of the control enforcement group run by the Office of the State Attorney General. Its purpose is to try to figure out what the next steps are for this problem.

“One of the big steps that we’ve seen in Gwinnett is prosecuting people for selling drugs that are killing people,” Branch stated. “Presently, there are nine people in the county jail who have sold fentanyl-laced pills to somebody in our community, and they’ve died.”

“For instance,” Branch added, “In July, we had 80 overdoses within a seven-day period. That’s crazy. So, we knew something was going on. We partner with law enforcement, and then they go to the media and say, ‘Hey, we’ve got a problem. People are trying to kill our citizens. And …if you want Narcan, here’s where you can pick it up.’”

Narcan is a medicine that can reverse overdoses in people who have opioids in their systems.

Everyone’s role in the solution

One area that Branch and his colleagues are working on is informing physicians that opioids don’t always need to be prescribed for pain management.

Through the Prescription Drug Monitoring Program, an electronic database used to monitor the prescribing and dispensing of controlled substances, the control enforcement group wants to encourage doctors to exercise more caution when prescribing opioids.

“Please be an advocate for your family, for your children and for your friends about opioids,” Branch urged. “We had a coworker whose son had his wisdom teeth taken out and the doctor prescribed him 20 opioid painkillers. The alternative is to try an over-the-counter analgesic like Tylenol or Advil and tell the doctor you don’t want those strong pain medications because they’re addictive,” Branch explained.

“One thing I will tell you about opioids, and it’s mostly oxycodone, …when [pharmaceutical companies] originally started selling this to doctors and telling them how important it was, they did not tell them how addictive it is,” he said.

Another key point Branch stressed is that first responders can’t physically be everywhere to administer Narcan, but saving the life of someone suspected of overdosing is so easy that almost anyone can do it.

In Gwinnett County, there are clinics in Norcross and Lawrenceville that pass out Narcan kits. There’s a strategic plan in place to have them available at every health department.

“Prevention education within our community is also a major part,” said Branch. “We have people in our state who don’t even want to look into whether they need it, but we continue to discuss it, talk about it and try to get other people involved.”

Attending events like SWGC’s July Spotlight Series is one way to learn about opioid addiction and get more Narcan kits into the hands of everyday people. Branch said the only way to beat this catastrophe is to get everyone involved.

Learn More about Opioids

gnrhealth.com/opioids

Georgia Crisis & Access Line

1-800-715-4225

mygcal.com

Health & Wellness

Health and Wellness at The Forum

Published

1 week ago

January 8, 2025

Kristen Corley

A woman with dark hair and pink top is lying on a massage-type table with her head lifted. Another woman, wearing a fitness top, is cradling her head to help stretch her neck.

The Forum in Peachtree Corners features a variety of businesses focused on health and wellness, offering services designed to meet individual needs. From fitness programs and recovery treatments to relaxation and aesthetic care, each business prioritizes physical and mental well-being.

StretchLab

StretchLab offers personalized stretching sessions to improve flexibility, mobility and overall physical health. Each client’s journey begins with a focus on their goals, whether it’s enhancing athletic performance, reducing stress or relieving pain.

“We dive into understanding each individual’s physical and mental needs to craft the perfect stretch experience,” said franchise owner Ghada Kheirbek.

Front desk area of a StretchLab fitness center. Fitness tables can be seen in the background. — photo courtesy of StretchLab

StretchLab’s MAPS technology sets it apart, analyzing Mobility, Activation, Posture and Symmetry using advanced tools. This allows flexologists to create custom plans tailored to individual progress. Sessions incorporate Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF) techniques, combining muscle activation and deep stretching for long-term results.

“Our approach focuses on areas you can’t stretch on your own, unlocking better movement and relief,” Kheirbek explained.

Community engagement is a priority, with partnerships with local schools, yoga studios and organizations.

StretchLab is located at 4880 Peachtree Parkway, Suite 1125, Peachtree Corners, GA 30092. For more information or to schedule a session, visit stretchlab.com/location/peachtree-corners or call (470) 410-6664.

Dermani MedSpa

Dermani MedSpa provides medical-grade aesthetic treatments, including facials, Botox and laser hair removal. The medspa focuses on enhancing natural beauty while prioritizing safety and comfort, offering services performed by highly trained staff in a professional, welcoming environment.

Each treatment is tailored to individual needs, ensuring clients achieve results aligned with their goals. Clients value the medspa’s attention to detail and commitment to quality, making it a trusted choice for aesthetic care.

Front desk area of the Dermani MedSpa in Peachtree Corners. The reception desk is long and white, the wall colors are light blue and cream and there's a painting on one wall above a potted plant in a white pot. — photo courtesy of Dermani MedSpa

“Dermani offers a variety of medical-based aesthetic treatments,” said Charlotte Hinton, marketing manager at Jamestown, The Forum. “Outside of just loving their team as a whole — their girls are the best — my colleagues and I love to see them for facials, Botox and laser hair removal.”

The medspa’s reliable, results-driven services cater to clients seeking everything from routine skin maintenance to advanced aesthetic solutions.

Dermani MedSpa is located at 5165 Peachtree Parkway, Suite 230, Peachtree Corners, GA 30092. To schedule an appointment or learn more, visit dermanimedspa.com/peachtree-corners-norcross or call (404) 383-1108.

The NOW Massage

The NOW Massage is more than just a spa; it’s a tranquil retreat designed to help clients disconnect from daily stress and reconnect within. The massage studio has a serene atmosphere inspired by beachside destinations.

“In today’s fast-paced, digitally driven world, self-care is no longer a luxury but a necessity,” said Gara Post, co-founder of The NOW Massage.

Dimly lit hallway at The NOW Massage in Peachtree Corners. Lights hang from the ceiling and line the floor and cream-colored canvas curtains close off each of the massage rooms for privacy. — photo courtesy of The NOW Massage

The NOW’s thoughtfully curated menu features three signature massages: The NOW, a relaxation-focused experience; The HEALER, which balances energy and reduces stress; and The STRETCH, a recovery-focused massage ideal for active lifestyles. Enhancements like Herbal Heat Therapy, Deep Tissue and Gua Sha allow clients to customize their experience.

“Our therapists undergo advanced training to ensure each session is tailored to individual needs,” explained Devin Borland, franchise owner.

Community involvement is central to The NOW’s mission. The studio supports first responders, recognizes educators and participates in local wellness events. “We’re proud to be part of the Peachtree Corners community,” Borland added.

The NOW Massage is located at 5161 Peachtree Parkway, Suite 615, Peachtree Corners, GA 30092. For appointments, visit thenowmassage.com/peachtree-corners or call (678) 615-3375.

Alloy Personal Training

Alloy Personal Training is redefining fitness in Peachtree Corners with a personalized approach tailored to help clients achieve lasting health and wellness.

“Our goal is to create a sustainable fitness journey for every individual, no matter where they’re starting,” said Margaret Bruemmer, fitness director at Alloy Personal Training.

Interior of Alloy Personal Training studio. The walls are white with a black painted ceiling. Stronger Together is painted in black on the right side wall. Fitness equipment lines the left side of the room. The floor is grey and everything is organized and tidy. — photo courtesy of Alloy Personal Training

At the heart of Alloy’s method is the Functional Movement Screen (FMS), a comprehensive evaluation tool that assesses a client’s current fitness level. This process ensures that every workout is not only effective but also safe.

“We use FMS to identify a client’s unique needs and design a program that works for them,” Bruemmer explained.

Trainers provide one-on-one guidance, helping clients navigate structured routines that focus on proper form, technique and measurable progress. Each session builds confidence while addressing individual health goals.

Located at 4880 Peachtree Parkway, Suite 1135, Peachtree Corners, GA 30092, Alloy Personal Training offers flexible hours to accommodate clients’ busy lifestyles. To learn more or schedule a consultation, visit alloypersonaltraining.com/location/alloy-peachtree-corners-ga or call (678) 578-4984.

Club Pilates

Club Pilates combines timeless Pilates principles with innovative techniques to offer a holistic approach to fitness and wellness. The studio provides a welcoming environment for clients of all fitness levels, ensuring that everyone can benefit from the practice.

“Pilates is about more than just fitness — it’s about helping our members discover balance, both physically and mentally,” said Victoria Steere, director of community engagement.

Interior of a pilates studio in Peachtree Corners, GA. The decor is brown, black and purple. There are rows of pilates machines along the each side of the room. — photo courtesy of Club Pilates

Each class is tailored to individual needs, with certified instructors guiding clients through sessions that improve posture, core strength and overall body awareness. Whether it’s a high-energy cardio class or a gentle stretch-focused session, Club Pilates helps clients achieve their fitness goals while promoting mindfulness and intentional movement.

“Many of our members describe their time here as an essential hour of self-care, a break from their busy lives,” Steere added.

By integrating physical and mental balance into its classes, Club Pilates empowers clients to leave each session feeling stronger, more confident and recharged.

The studio is located at 4880 Peachtree Parkway, Suite 1130, Peachtree Corners, GA 30092. For more information or to schedule a session, visit clubpilates.com/location/peachtreecorners or call (404) 902-2583.

Icebox Cryotherapy

Icebox Cryotherapy brings innovative recovery and wellness treatments to Peachtree Corners, offering clients a practical way to rejuvenate their bodies and manage stress. Specializing in full-body cryotherapy, cryofacials and compression therapy, the studio is a haven for those seeking to reduce inflammation, improve circulation and enhance overall physical performance.

Full-body cryotherapy sessions expose the body to controlled cold temperatures, stimulating a natural response that accelerates recovery and reduces tension. Cryofacials, on the other hand, provide a gentle way to refresh the skin, diminish puffiness and promote a youthful glow. For athletes or individuals managing chronic muscle stress, compression therapy targets specific areas to relieve tension and improve mobility.

“They’re a fantastic option for anyone looking to rejuvenate their skin while managing stress,” shared Hinton.

Located at 4880 Peachtree Parkway, Suite 1120B, Peachtree Corners, GA 30092, Icebox Cryotherapy invites clients to experience their transformative services. For appointments or more information, visit iceboxtherapy.com/peachtree-corners-ga or call (678) 284-2570.

Perspire Sauna Studio

Perspire Sauna Studio is set to redefine wellness in Peachtree Corners, combining ancient practices with modern technology to create a sanctuary for self-care. Offering infrared sauna therapy, red-light therapy and contrast therapy, the studio is designed to help clients detox, de-stress and recharge.

“We’re bringing cutting-edge wellness options to the community, creating a space where self-care becomes a part of your weekly routine,” said Amanda Arboleda Ridley, studio owner.

Long, narrow treatment room at Perspire Sauna Studio in Peachtree Corners. The floor is light brown, walls are white. There's a white chair and small wall shelf at the end of the room, across from a sauna. The number 2 is on the wall outside the rooms open door. — photo courtesy of The Forum at Peachtree Corners

Infrared saunas use controlled heat to promote detoxification and improve circulation, providing both physical and mental health benefits. Red-light therapy enhances skin health and stimulates cellular repair, while contrast therapy alternates between hot and cold treatments to invigorate the body and strengthen the immune system.

“Whether it’s a deep detox, improving your skin or just carving out 40 minutes of uninterrupted ‘you’ time, we help clients feel their best,” Ridley explained.

For those seeking a tranquil environment to reset and recharge, Perspire Sauna Studio offers a personalized experience tailored to individual wellness goals.

The studio will be located at 4880 Peachtree Parkway, Suite 1120A, Peachtree Corners, GA 30092. For updates and inquiries, visit their website, perspiresaunastudio.com/ga/peachtree-corners, or contact them directly.

City Government

City of Peachtree Corners Awarded Health Wellness Grant

Published

2 months ago

November 7, 2024

Peachtree Corners Magazine staff

The City of Peachtree Corners has been awarded one of the 2024 Health Wellness Grants by the Georgia Municipal Association (GMA). The grant supports the city’s commitment to facilitating positive change in workplace culture and going the extra mile for employees’ health and wellness.

GMA is honored to collaborate with the City of Peachtree Corners at every step of their health wellness journey. Awards are made statewide to participating employers enrolled in one or more medical plans through the Georgia Municipal Employees Benefit Services (GMEBS) Life and Health Insurance Fund.

The Health Wellness Program at GMA helps members embrace a variety of skills, mindsets and cultures to encourage utmost well-being through workplace health wellness initiatives. These initiatives have demonstrated a track record of improving employee well-being and quality of life while enhancing workplace morale, reducing medical claims and maximizing cost impact.

“As a city, we are committed to fostering an environment where our employees’ health and well-being are a top priority,” said City Manager Brian Johnson. “This grant will enable us to build on our efforts to create a workplace culture that not only promotes wellness but also empowers our staff to make healthier lifestyle choices every day. Our employees are our greatest asset, and investing in their well-being ultimately benefits both the City of Peachtree Corners and the community we serve.”

Workplace health wellness

The City of Peachtree Corners has designated a Health Wellness Champion to coordinate/oversee the program and work in partnership with GMA to facilitate the planning of targeted activities. Jennifer Bonacci, assistant finance director, has expounded on how the City of Peachtree Corners will benefit from implementing workplace health wellness initiatives.

“We are excited to use our grant money to help make a difference in the lives of our employees by creating an atmosphere of health and wellness,” said Bonacci. “Adult fitness opportunities are often put on the back burner due to work schedules, long commutes and family obligations. We hope to enable our employees to make small choices each day to increase their overall health and wellness and build a community of support and encouragement around health and wellness.”

For more about the City of Peachtree Corners, visit peachtreecornersga.gov/1/Home.

To learn more about GMA’s Health Wellness Program, visit them online here.

Health & Wellness

The NOW Massage Opens Peachtree Corners Boutique at The Forum

Published

3 months ago

October 15, 2024

Shawne Taylor

massage room with soft lighting and natural materials

Grand opening set for October 21

The NOW Massage, a growing wellness franchise offering high-quality, affordable massage services in a chic, inspired setting, will open its first Peachtree Corners location on Monday, October 21. The boutique, located in a 2,414-square-foot space at The Forum, is owned and operated by area residents Devin and Amanda Borland, who also own and operate The NOW Massage Roswell. They bring over a decade of sales and customer service experience to their franchising journey with The NOW.

“After building a loyal following of guests and Ritual Members at our Roswell boutique, we look forward to introducing Peachtree Corners to The NOW’s menu of customizable massages, monthly memberships and nourishing products,” said Devin.

massage studio with natural colors and lighting — photo courtesy of The NOW Massage Peachtree Corners

Each The NOW Massage location is designed with a minimalist aesthetic that incorporates raw elements and natural materials to create a soothing oasis. Interiors feature natural wood surfaces and exposed beams coupled with sheep skins and rawhides, cactus galleries and crystal grids, setting the tone for a relaxing experience.

Grand opening specials

To celebrate the boutique’s grand opening week from October 21–28, all massage bookings will receive a complimentary enhancement. Guests can choose from two of The NOW’s best-selling signature add-on treatments to amplify their therapeutic massage, including Herbal Heat Therapy, in which heat packs are used on the neck and back during treatment to provide a deeper sense of relaxation or Fresh Eyes, a soothing, hydrating eye mask with vitamins and antioxidants.

For guests who want to make massage a regular part of their monthly or bi-monthly self-care routine, The NOW also offers Ritual Membership packages that include savings on massages, roll over credits, perks and more.

The first 50 guests to join as a Ritual Member at the Peachtree Corners location will receive a complimentary curated gift bag filled with a selection of best-selling products from the company’s Nourish, Scent and Room collections.

reception area of massage studio — photo courtesy of The NOW Massage Peachtree Corners

With boutiques currently open from coast to coast and steady expansion on the horizon, The NOW Massage is excited to bring its thoughtfully crafted menu, healing products and signature design to The Forum in Peachtree Corners and to other cities across the United States.

For more information or to book a massage, visit thenowmassage.com/peachtree-corners.