The heroin epidemic is getting out of control, causing more and more people to die from overdoses each year. One of the biggest issues that we face as a country is that we’re more reactive than proactive. We often think that our friend, family member, or coworker isn’t going to be the one who dies of an overdose. Sadly, by the time it happens, it’s too late, so it’s important to understand how big the problem is.
Recent Heroin Epidemic Statistics
In June of 2017, the New York Times published an article with data from hundreds of independent health agencies. The data is truly devastating, showing that approximately 59,000–65,000 people died in 2016. These figures are about 19% higher than in 2015. Compare those figures to other peak fatality rates:
- Car crash deaths (1972) – About 55,000
- HIV deaths (1995) – About 46,000
- Gun deaths (1993) – About 39,000
As you can see, this is a national crisis that is killing more people than just about any other preventable cause of death. Despite these numbers being available for everyone to see, many cities are seeing a rise in heroin overdoses. This may make you wonder why there isn’t more being done. In short, the answer is because of the stigma and education. Many people aren’t educated about what addiction looks like, and some people are afraid to admit there’s a problem.
There’s Nothing to be Ashamed of
Having a heroin addiction is no different than having a cancer diagnosis, so it’s important that you seek help. Sometimes loved ones won’t admit that their child, parent, spouse or friend has a problem with heroin. It’s important to realize that people with an addiction aren’t bad people, but they’re sick people who need help.
One of the biggest problems with having an addiction is the way that it hijacks the person’s brain. When a person has an addiction to any substance, the brain tells him or her that there’s no way out. The person believes that it’s impossible to live a decent life without using heroin as a way to cope. This is the lie that the brain tells the person as a way to keep him or her sick, but fortunately, there’s hope.
Getting Help for an Addiction to Heroin
Ashley Addiction Treatment is here to provide hope to struggling individuals and their loved ones. Our addiction treatment center is passionate about helping people break the cycle of addiction. We have helped many people who were once hopeless go on to lead the happy, healthy and successful lives they deserve.
To find out more about our first-class facility, call us today at 866-313-6307.