The American opioid epidemic is bringing widespread devastation to towns and cities across the country and the statistics are bleak:
- Opioid overdoses kill more people every year than breast cancer
- Opioid use killed a higher percentage of Americans in 2016 than the percentage of Americans killed in the deadliest year of the Vietnam War
- Costs attributable to the opioid crisis now exceed one trillion dollars
- Americans are responsible for 99.7% of the world’s total hydrocodone consumption
These grim facts beg the question: why is it so difficult to stop using opioids?
Researchers who have studied the issue believe there are a number of factors that make it difficult to stop using opioids. First, the stigma associated with opioid addiction can make it more difficult for individuals to admit to and seek help for their problem. In addition, the symptoms of opioid withdrawal can make it difficult to stop using without medical attention and professional help.
Addiction specialists explain that when a person stops using opioids after a period of regular use, it can take several days for the body to regenerate and begin producing naturally occurring painkillers at a normal level. In addition to other withdrawal symptoms like nausea, cramps, vomiting, and diarrhea, this means that patients can experience heightened pain at the exact time they are trying to reduce their use of painkillers. This irreconcilable conflict is a major reason why it can be so difficult for people to stop using the drug.
If you are concerned that you or someone you love may be developing an addiction to opioids, the best thing to do is to seek the advice of certified addiction specialist and enroll in an addiction treatment program at the earliest opportunity.
At Asana Recovery, we offer a supervised detoxification and residential treatment program in a supportive, relaxing, and inspiring environment. Call us at (949) 438-4504 to learn more about our comprehensive drug and alcohol addiction treatment program today.
