When it comes to epicenters of the Opioid Crisis, California doesn’t rank high on the list, according to statistics from the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA). However, as we have seen in recent years, even our beautiful Golden State is not exempt from the onslaught of prescription opioids and synthetic painkillers plaguing our country. Nowadays, dangerous drugs like heroin are responsible for more emergency room visits in Cali than ever before. However, did you ever consider which states have the worst cases of opioid use disorder? Which ones serve as mini-epicenters in an otherwise peaceful state? Let’s take a closer look at locations in California with the worst opioid problems.
An Increase in Opioid Emergencies
According to new figures from the state, hospitals in California have received more than 15,000 patients who suffered from overdoses on heroin and other types of opioids in 2013, a 50% increase from numbers reported in 2006. In essence, this estimate approximates an overdose rate of one victim every 45 minutes and may also provide an explanation for the rise in neonatal abstinence syndrome cases (NAS) in our state.
As revealed by the Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development, over the course of a 7-year period (2006 to 2013), opioid visits triggered more and more ER visits and hospitalizations. In 2010, opioid-related fatalities rose but, fortunately, have started to drop over recent years.
Trouble in Rural Paradise
However, researchers have confirmed that hospitals in rural sections have experienced the most severe cases of opioid-related overdose emergencies. From 2006 to 2013, Shasta County experienced 1,100 overdoses in total (an incidence of 8 cases per 10,000 people), three times higher than the statewide average. Meanwhile, opioid overdoses have continued to skyrocket across El Dorado, Placer, and Sacramento Counties (all above the California average), while Yolo County reported numbers below the state average.
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.
