After decades of fighting the ongoing fight against drug problems in our country, you may be eager to ask one simple question: just how severe is the U.S. Opioid Crisis? In actuality, we have to agree with you on that one. How did a series of beneficial pills suddenly explode into one of our nation’s most outrageous, painful, and catastrophic public health epidemics of all time? Many critics will point fingers at pill-happy doctors, while others might blame Big Pharma, with some criticism being tossed at border conflicts. On that note, let’s take a closer look at the severity of the Opioid Crisis on our home turf.
Give Me the Gory Details
Did you know that drug-related overdoses are the main cause of death among American citizens under 50 years of age? Even worse, did you know that rate is steadily rising? In fact, in 2016, more people died from drug overdoses than from car accidents or guns, much fast than our current HIV outbreak. In 2015 alone, one out of 50 fatalities were triggered by drugs. Now, add to these statistics the fact that over 2 million U.S. citizens suffer from opioid use disorder (about 97 million people worldwide).
Prescription Drugs vs. Synthetics
So, in that light, which drugs have triggered this severe outbreak? Multiple resources have indicated that prescription opioids kickstarted the problem, but fatalities stemming from these drugs have begun to taper off since 2011. At the same time, overdose-related deaths from heroin and fentanyl have been rising at a dangerous rate. In fact, in focal points for the crisis, fentanyl has triggered 50% of fatal drug overdoses.
Nevertheless, critics have argued that synthetics are not the primary cause. Medical-grade prescription opioids are still fanning the flames.
Seeking Treatment for Opioid Use Disorder
Opioid use disorder is easily one of the most terrifying substance use disorders on the planet, mostly because opioid addiction partially stems from a large number of drugs that are legally regulated by the federal government. For decades, our country has suffered beneath the weight of dangerous synthetics and legal painkillers, and millions of Americans have suffered from addiction throughout the 20 years the crisis has been brewing. However, you can make the right decision by taking a stand against your addiction and regaining your health and happiness.
If you are suffering from a severe case of drug addiction, or have a friend or loved one who is coping with this illness, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our professional team of counselors and healthcare experts will help you endure the painful process of opioid withdrawal and detox and guide you along the rocky road of rehabilitation. Soon enough, you will experience a faster and much more efficient recovery.
If you want to find out more about our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs or enroll in one of these programs today, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your leisure and your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how you can overcome your mental illness and take an extra step toward becoming a healthier person.
