Over the course of more than 20 years, the United States has continued to suffer from the opioid epidemic, possibly one of the most dangerous health crises since the HIV/AIDS outbreak in the 1970s and the 1980s. Although a large portion of the drugs triggering this problem are 100% legal, we have to keep in mind that many victims (out of desperation) will start turning to the illegal variety, one example being the nasty drug called heroin. Prominent in urban, suburban, and rural areas nowadays, this painkiller has become especially popular among young adults ages 18 to 25, with 11% of these victims seeking more treatment for their addictive behavior. However, just how bad is the heroin consumption rate in our country? Let’s take a closer look and find out some more information.
Numbers Are Not Promising
Based on the 2016 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), the situation concerning heroin use in our country is extremely serious. In 2016 alone, 948,000 American citizens had used heroin in the year prior to the survey (a massive increase from 2007). (Unfortunately, this trend seems to be on the rise among young adults between the ages of 18 to 25.) Likewise, the NSDUH confirmed that, from 2009 to 2016, the number of first-time heroin users has nearly doubled from 90,000 to 170,000. However, we are happy to report that heroin use among teens had dropped among 12 to 17-year olds, with the drug being less popular among 7th, 8th, and 10th graders now more than ever.
Rise of Opioid Use Disorder
Unfortunately, the rise of heroin consumption has paved the way for a string of physical and mental health problems. Medical studies have confirmed that, from 2002 to 2016, the number of victims meeting criteria for heroin use disorder (or opioid use disorder) has boosted from 214,000 to 626,000. Ultimately, news reports have confirmed that heroin use is one of the most critical drug-based problems taking place in the United States at this time.
Seeking Treatment for Heroin Addiction
Alone, prescription opioids can be potentially dangerous drugs with a high risk for abuse and addiction, so imagine how dangerous situations can become when synthetic painkillers like heroin start to enter the picture. Over the course of several decades, illegal opioids have been responsible for killing hundreds of thousands of American citizens, and many more continue to fall victim to these dangerous substances. However, you can take the next steps to ensure you do not fall victim to this sickness.
Are you suffering from a severe case of opioid addiction? Do you have a friend or a family member who is coping with one of these issues, as well? On both accounts, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our professional team of counselors and healthcare experts will help you endure the painful process of 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 towards breaking away from opioid addiction.
