At this time, the United States is suffering from one of the most severe public health epidemics we could imagine: the Opioid Crisis. Possibly one of the worst health crises since the 1970s AIDS outbreak, this national epidemic has claimed the lives of hundreds of thousands of people and has caused a staggering two million people to suffer from addiction. From prescription opioids to synthetic painkillers, the U.S. has continued to break beneath the weight of sickness. Still, in the heat of our emergency, some of you may not be aware that one of our allies is arming itself for a similar crisis. Let’s take a closer look at how Australia’s opioid epidemic is grimly mirroring ours here in the states.
Nothing but Death for Miles
If you were to speak to residents of New South Wales about one of the biggest causes of premature death in their state, they would probably mention opioids at some point. Just ask one mother, who lost her 22-year old son to an accidental overdose of fentanyl, a synthetic painkiller that is 50 to 100 times more powerful than morphine. According to a recent report from the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC), this young man was one of six victims who suffered opioid-related deaths examined by New South Wales Deputy State Coroner Harriet Grahame.
In an interview, Magistrate Grahame grimly reminded the public that these deaths are 100% preventable. Nevertheless, reports have indicated that an additional 2,000 NSW residents will probably die from opioid overdoses in 2019.
Just Take Action
Additionally, Magistrate Grahame compared Australia’s opioid problem to the epidemic here in the states, where nearly 50,000 people died from opioid overdoses in 2017 alone. On her list of 26 recommendations for how to improve the epidemic, she commented that the Australian government just needs to ignore the experts and take emergency action. In simple terms, officials need to develop human rights policies, which Magistrate Grahame believes would completely reverse the crisis.
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, but we also have to remember that other people all over the world are also suffering from dreadful opioid addiction and related overdoses. 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.
