It’s easy to look at the statistics for opioid addiction and overdoses in America and assume it has reached its peak. In reality, however, the opioid epidemic may actually be taking a turn for the worse. Explore some of the sad facts that could be contributing to a growing dependence on opiates across the country, and then learn where to find help.
Increasing Numbers of Opioid Prescription Medications
For decades, physicians have been prescribing a growing number of opioid medications. Despite increasing medical awareness of a nationwide opioid epidemic, those numbers aren’t getting any smaller. This means that every year, more and more individuals are using and abusing opiates. That translates, unfortunately, to more addictions.
The best way to combat this is to look for alternatives to opioid medications. This is especially true for people who are using opioid medications as a long-term solution to pain. In addition, those with a legitimate need for opioid medications should be carefully supervised in order to prevent an addiction from taking hold.
Funding Cuts for the Opioid Epidemic
In 2015, over 40,000 people died as a result of opioid drug overdose. Millions of people are struggling with opioid abuse, and combating such a big epidemic is no easy task. Education, awareness, training, and support all cost money.
However, funding cuts are a serious problem. Federal, state and city organizations need the funding to target opioid use and stop addiction for the next generation. Without funding, this job may be virtually impossible.
Growing Concern of Synthetic Opiates
There are many different forms of opiates. For many, heroin is the first drug that comes to mind, followed closely by prescription opioids. However, a growing concern is synthetic opiates.
Synthetic opiates often mimic the effects of drugs like heroin or morphine. The most popular of these synthetic opiates is known as fentanyl. Synthetics like fentanyl are more potent than heroin, and they are also more addictive. The rise of these opioid drugs means the epidemic will be even harder to control.
Most people who try fentanyl and similar versions already struggle with addiction. One way to stop synthetic opiate use is to do something for the people in the midst of the struggle. That can limit the demand, and therefore supply, of these dangerous drugs.
Treating Opiate Addictions One Client at a Time
Ending the opioid epidemic may mean taking on one addiction at a time. Individuals who are serious about overcoming addiction can turn to addiction recovery programs. At Ashley Addiction Treatment in Havre de Grace, Maryland, you’ll have access to a range of addiction treatment methods. A few examples of these methods include the following:
- Yoga therapy
- Massage therapy
- Individual talk therapy
- Group counseling
- Trauma therapy
The opioid epidemic isn’t disappearing anytime soon. However, you can regain control of your life thanks to recovery substance abuse programs at Ashley Addiction in Havre de Grace, Maryland. If you’re serious about sobriety, then call 866-313-6307 to get started down the path toward lifelong recovery, happiness, and health.