Nowadays, you’ve probably heard at least one story about America’s opioid epidemic on the news or read about this health scare in the papers. Perhaps the true irony of this crisis is the simple fact that half of the drugs fueling this sickness are federally regulated and were initially designed to help people, not hurt them. Nevertheless, drugs, like OxyContin, morphine, and even fentanyl to an extent, have been killing hundreds of thousands of people and triggering addiction in millions more. Is there any way we can put a stop to the pain and suffering? As a horde of medical professionals studies opioid use disorder further, you can still make an effort in your community. Here is how you can help to reduce the severity of the Opioid Crisis.
Innocent Experimentation
During the turn of the crisis, many Americans had a detailed picture of a characteristic drug deal, at least where opioids were concerned. People might initially imagine a shady deal taking place in a dark alleyway, where the addict purchases knockoff opioids to get high. However, the fact of the matter is that addicts get drugs in a much easier and, in many ways, more tragic way.
For a moment, consider the fact that millions of Americans use some form of painkillers, and a large portion of these people consume opioids. Medicine cabinets and other storage facilities, ripe for the addict’s picking, can be home to a variety of opioids and other potentially addictive medications. As a result, many people suffering from addiction will steal drugs from other people’s homes.
Just as Bad as Heroin
In any case, if you know someone who is suffering from opioid-related problems, you must emphasize that these medications are just as deadly as the illegal variety. You might even know someone who was sent to the hospital after consuming prescription drugs he/she had stolen from a cabinet.)
To help reduce the severity of this Opioid Crisis, the most important actions you can take are protection and prevention:
- If any of your friends want to experiment with opioids, tell them the prescription variety is just as deadly as the illegal kind.
- Tell your loved ones to dispose of unused medications properly and to keep others locked up.
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.
