When it comes to the horde of problems faced by the United States, the Opioid Crisis might easily be one of the most frustratingly confusing since the AIDS outbreak in the 1970s. Jumpstarted by drugs that, in an ironic twist, are partially legal and fully regulated, this public health emergency has claimed the lives of hundreds of thousands of people, while millions more have become full-blown opioid abusers and addicts as a result. However, for the people in Washington State, the situation has taken a much darker turn. These people are not simply dealing with opioid pills but are battling an even nastier painkiller with a heinous reputation: heroin. Let’s take a closer look at the brewing Heroin Crisis in Washington.
The Growing Threat of Heroin
Back in 2018, Representative Dan Griffey, of 35th District, explained how recent attempts to put an end to opioid problems have been grazing over heroin, the real monster behind the Crisis. After taking a look at the facts, you can see what he means. From 2002 to 2016, deaths from heroin rose by a staggering 500%, and, to make matters worse, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have speculated that these heroin-related overdoses have been under-reported by 30%. In fact, 11 out of 21 field agents for the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) have agreed that heroin is the greatest threat within their jurisdiction.
The Danger to Washington Residents
So how great is the threat of heroin to Washington State?
Let’s just say that describing heroin as a threat would be a major understatement. The University of Washington’s Alcohol and Drug Abuse Institute (ADAI) reports that 85% of all positive cases in crime labs are related to heroin in some way, and, trailing behind meth, heroin is the most widespread illegal substance in the state. In two periods, Washington also experienced a significant rise in heroin-related overdose deaths:
- 2002-2004: 65 deaths per 100,000 residents
- 2014–2016: 12 deaths per 100,000 residents
- A 634% increase
In past years, the largest spikes in heroin use occurred in the following counties:
- King: 728%
- Pierce: 385%
- Snohomish: 1945%
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.
