Since the early 2000s, the United States has become a hub for the budding opioid crisis. In fact, statistics revealed that our country is the largest hub for this growing epidemic in the entire world. On average, the U.S. distributed 66 opioid prescriptions for every 100 people suffering from pain. Despite our unfortunate leadership in this crisis, other countries are still suffering from opioid disasters. Let’s take a closer look at how three English-speaking superpowers and friends of the U.S. are getting a grip on the drug problems in their borders.
Canada
In 2015, over 13.1% of Canadian adults consumed a form of prescription opioids, while over 13 drug-related incidences occurred in hospitals in the following year (2016). Next to us, our neighbor to the North is dealing with one of the second largest opioid epidemics in the world. However, the crisis has divided the country down the middle, with Western Canada reporting the majority of incidences (including deaths caused by opioid overdose). As part of its initial response, in 2003, the Canadian government issued an injection clinic in Vancouver, and the region had experienced a decrease in deaths in 2017.
Australia
Things are not looking too good in The Land Down Under. According to a recent report, Australia is preparing to tackle a dangerous opioid crisis that is on the rise as we speak. From 2009 to 2017, the number of opioid prescriptions skyrocketed from 10 million to 14 million. According to New South Wales Police, one of the biggest problems lies in rural areas. People taking fentanyl who do not have access to medical facilities can fall victim to opioid overdoses much easier than people living in urban or suburban areas.
United Kingdom
Our overseas neighbor the United Kingdom has earned the unpleasant title of “Drug Overdose Capital of Europe” for a very good (or, in this case, very bad) reason. From 2006 to 2016, the number of opioid prescriptions doubled from 12 million to 24 million, while the number of hospital cases (involving drug poisoning) increased from 4,891 to 11,660. At this time, the UK government has offered an online educational packet designed to inform the public about drug abuse prevention and treatment.
Always remember that alcohol and drugs do not have control over your life. You do. Are you suffering from a substance abuse disorder or addiction? Do you have a friend or family member suffering from one or more of these debilitating illnesses? If you do, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our counselors and healthcare experts are ready to walk you through every step of the detox and withdrawal process and rehabilitation and guide you towards living a happier, healthier, and freer lifestyle. While the road to recovery might not be an easy road to travel, we promise to help you every step of the way. Take the first step to stay fit, healthy, and safe.
The time for you to take back control of your life is now. If you are interested in one of our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how to overcome your drug addiction and substance abuse troubles today.