When you take a closer look at the opioid epidemic raging across our country, you may begin to wonder why on earth it has spiraled out of control so quickly. Over the course of several decades, millions of people have become attached to these deadly medications (including illegal varieties), while hundreds of thousands of people suffer from overdoses. Despite the long-term problems associated with this crisis, however, did you know that only 6% of clinics across the United States actually have lifesaving anti-opioid medications on hand? While we are dealing with one of the most dangerous and frightening epidemics in our nation’s history, clinics are struggling to pick up the broken pieces. Let’s take a closer look at this travesty and find out some more information.
An Epidemic of Death
According to Dr. Ramin Mojtabai (professor of mental health at the John Hopkins School of Public Health in Baltimore, Maryland), the United States is currently suffering through a death epidemic, and placing heavy emphasis on the use of anti-opioid medications is one of the keys to solving this terrible crisis. Some tools that could help solve the crisis, as he explains, are naloxone kits, buprenorphine, naltrexone, and methadone (all approved by the Food and Drug Administration). Despite the seal of approval, however, many facilities do not keep these drugs on hand.
Lack of Resources for Addicts
Recently, Dr. Mojtabai and his team of researchers analyzed nationally-issued surveys (conducted by the U.S. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) on 10,000 outpatient facilities that took place from 2007 to 2016. Although 20% of the facilities offered medications in 2007, the number barely increased to 36% in 2016. What makes the situation even worse? According to Dr. Mojtabai, a tiny number of these locations offered a combination of anti-opioid meds.
Seeking Treatment for Opioid Use Disorder
Opioids are extremely potent and dangerous drugs that have a high risk for abuse and addiction. Although these substances can provide relief for patients suffering from chronic pain, a painful disease, or post-surgery discomfort, opioids can still trigger dependency and subsequent addiction if patients are left unchecked by doctors. However, harm reduction methods and counseling can easily help people overcome their illness and prevent the spread of infectious diseases.
If you are suffering from a severe case of opioid use disorder 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 detox and withdrawal and guide you through each step of the rehabilitation process to help you separate yourself from these deadly painkillers.
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 attachment to opioids and take an essential step against the Opioid Crisis.
