When you lay the cards on the table and take a good long look at the facts, you will begin to realize that the drug problems in Ohio never seem to be ending. Over the past couple of decades, the Buckeye State has risen to become the second-most severe opioid epicenter in the United States and has yet to drop below the top five in recent times. On par with West Virginia, Ohio had previously documented 32.9 opioid overdose-related deaths per 100,000 residents, far above the national average of 13.3 fatalities per 100,000. Still, while we are happy to report that prescription opioid problems have dropped this year, the state is facing another wave of meth-related problems. Let’s take a closer look at the mixed bag in the Heartland of America.
An Increase in Crystal Meth
According to the latest report from the Ohio Substance Abuse Monitoring (OSAM) Network, opioid prescriptions may slowly be declining in the State of Ohio, but meth is, once again, starting to make a swift comeback. Based on collective reports from drug users and law enforcement officials, the simple fact that meth is cheaper and lasts longer than crack cocaine is a driving force behind its increase. Likewise, Tom Sherba, an investigator for the OSAM Network, adds that crystal meth is not as expensive as the powdered variety.
However, Sherba points out that one of the biggest reasons for the influx of crystal meth is the fact that cartels are putting this drug in shipments of fentanyl and heroin. Areas like Athens and Youngstown have suffered the brunt of this meth influx.
Why Are Opioids Dropping?
So now that we know about crystal meth’s return, you may be asking why opioid use is dwindling. As the report indicates, one reason for this sudden depletion may be due to Ohio doctors making an effort to cut back on prescribing these drugs in an effort to prevent the prolonged spread of the Opioid Crisis in the Buckeye State.
Nevertheless, fentanyl still remains one of the biggest threats to Ohioans.
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.
