America’s opioid epidemic is no longer whispered in small towns or private family gatherings. Glaring news reports, overloaded court cases, and celebrity gossip columns remind us that the secret is out. From luxurious mansions to small-town neighborhoods, this class of drugs has taken the spotlight.
Drugs in the Opioid Epidemic
The class of drugs contributing to the epidemic include opiates and synthetic opioids. Opiates are from the opium poppy plant and opioids are manufactured to mimic the natural effects of opium.
Additionally, both can be legal or illegal. Opioids for pain are very popular in many medicine cabinets. Unfortunately, the popularity leads to misuse, addiction, and overdose.
Although the original intended use is to help manage pain, many Americans are susceptible to developing an addiction. According to the Centers for Disease Control, 33,000 deaths were caused by opioid overdose. Consequently, nearly half of these deaths involved prescription opioids.
In the United States, the rate of opioid use, abuse, and overdose is alarming. However, given the high number of prescriptions and easy access, it’s not coincidental. This national issue requires a significant shift in cultural attitude before there’s a large-scale change.
What Is Causing an Increase in Prescription Drugs?
The United States alone is the largest prescriber of opioid medications. According to data from the United Nations, American opioid consumption outranks all other nations.
Tracing this dangerous prescription and consumption rate isn’t simple. There’s no direct line between an aging population, increases in pain conditions, and thus, a notable increase in opioid use. Not to mention, we must not overlook loose regulations and the influence of pharmaceutical companies as contributing factors.
For example, the lack of standards makes it easy for doctors to write scripts often. Therefore, patients with no pain-related diagnoses have access to high dose prescriptions. Depending on the doctor and the state they practice in, patients could get opioids for minor injuries.
Thus, what starts as a legal medical condition could spiral into an addiction. Not being aware of the addictive nature of opioids can work against a person’s desire to feel better.
Prescription Opioid Addiction Treatment with Soledad House
Although opioid use is quite prevalent, there are always helpful resources available. For example, women specifically, can find privacy and support at Soledad House in San Diego, California.
Our treatment options include:
• Two licensed recovery homes
• Addiction relapse prevention education
• Family therapy
• Individual therapy
• Nurturing environment for recovery
• Exercise therapy
• Aftercare program
If you’re ready to stop being an opioid epidemic statistic, it’s time to speak with a dedicated member of our team. Above all, we give our female residents a fresh start so they can enjoy their lives again.
With help from our compassionate, licensed professionals, you have access to the necessary tools to overcome addiction. Take the first step by calling 866-314-3222 today.
