Opioid Use Disorder

It is no secret that the opioid epidemic has taken a toll on communities across the United States. An estimated 2.1 million Americans suffer from opioid addiction, and many more are at risk of developing an addiction. Opioid Use Disorder is a serious problem that can lead to devastating consequences, including overdose and death.

 

If you or someone you know is struggling with opioid addiction, there are resources available to help. Here are some important things to keep in mind:

 

Opioid addiction is a serious problem that can lead to devastating consequences.  Some of these consequences include (From Justice.gov) on average:

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• At least 78 people will die from an opioid-related overdose, and according to public health reports from the field, the 2016 overdose death statistics will far outnumber the 78-deaths-per-day statistic of 2014.

• 3,900 people will use a prescription opioid outside of legitimate medical purposes and supervision. These prescription drugs are many times obtained through theft, fraud, or otherwise diverted from people with legitimate, medically-appropriate prescriptions.

• 580 people will try heroin for the first time.

• Heroin overdoses have increased 244% between 2007 and 2013. Many of the new heroin users are youths, with an average age of 24 ½ years old for first-time users.

• The change in heroin administration routes to pill form, coupled with the rise of counterfeit pills often containing heroin, fentanyl, and fentanyl derivatives, has caused unwitting users who purchase drugs on the street to overdose and die in record numbers.

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WHAT CAN YOU DO?

• Have a meaningful conversation with your family. Reject the notion that “it can’t happen to you or your family.” Talk aloud about the threat opioid abuse brings to your family. Commit to asking the tough questions.

• Invest in your family and community’s future. Many intensely affected regions routinely host public forums, town halls, prevention activities at schools, community vigils, walks, and fun runs. Get involved and participate.

• Speak up. Contact law enforcement when you suspect drug-related activity in your neighborhood. Successful policing relies on a whole-community approach to identify and bring drug trafficking organizations to justice.

• Keep any prescription drugs in your house secure and locked away, out of reach of others.

 

Know the warning signs of Opioid Use:

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• Needle marks on arms and legs 

• Constricted, “pinpoint” pupils.

• Having trouble staying awake, or falling asleep at inappropriate times.

• Flushed, itchy skin.

• Withdrawing from social activities that were once enjoyed.

• Sudden and dramatic mood swings that seem out of character.

• Impulsive actions and decision-making.

• Engaging in risky activities, such as driving under the influence.

• Visiting multiple doctors in order to obtain more prescriptions.

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If you or someone you know needs help Call Now for more information. We can help you!

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