There is an opioid epidemic spreading across the United States. Every day, families have to deal with the loss of loved ones who fall victim to this epidemic. Thousands of people lose their lives every year due to opioids. Now that street opioids are even more affordable; it is more important than ever to know how to combat opioid addiction. Here are some ways that people can avoid falling victim to their very own personal opioid epidemic.
Gain Knowledge About the Opioid Epidemic
One of the most important things people can do is arm themselves with knowledge about the opioid epidemic. Knowledge is power and, in this case, can keep people from developing an addiction. Just how bad is the epidemic? In 2015, opioid drugs took the lives of more than 33,000 people.
It is also important to take note that opioids encompass a number of drugs. They include not only prescription medicines but also illegal street drugs such as heroin. Regardless if people get the drugs from the street or their doctors, all opioids are addictive. An addiction to opioids often requires an opioid detox center in order to cleanse your body from the drug.
People also need to know that this epidemic is not slowing down. In 2015, 135,000 people tried heroin for the very first time. Stats show that teens and young adults are curious about heroin and other opioid drugs.
Doctors Are Part of the Problem
In the United States, doctors prescribe opioid drugs more than anything else. Studies show that people can develop an opioid addiction after just a few uses. Because of the large number of prescriptions that doctors write, they are actually part of the problem. The large majority of people get their first taste of opioids after getting a legitimate prescription from their doctors.
Opioid drugs have their place in the medical field. However, it is extremely important that people take these drugs how their doctors prescribe. Taking larger doses or taking doses more often can increase the chances of developing an addiction. It is important to speak to your doctor if you feel that your medication is no longer working.
Avoid Anti-Anxiety Medicines While Taking Opioids
Studies show that people should not take anti-anxiety medications when they take opioids. Those who take both are more likely to develop an addiction than those who do not.
One reason is that clinical anxiety and addiction are both mental disorders. When people suffer from one disorder, it is easy for them to develop another. It is important that they talk to their doctors about other ways to manage pain.
Counseling is a great way to avoid falling victim to the opioid epidemic. Many people turn to opioid use as a result of anxiety or depression. Counseling can help them weed out the cause and stop an addiction before it starts.
Set a Strong Foundation for Drug Rehab With Detox
If you or a loved one already suffers from opioid addiction, getting help is the most important step. While most people want to turn to rehab right away, it is important to seek medical drug detox first. Programs such as those at Serenity House Detox & Recovery can help you start recovery the right way. Some of the programs that we offer include:
- Prescription drug detox program
- Group therapy program
- Individual therapy program
- Residential detox program
- Men’s detox program
- Women’s detox program
Do not let your addiction become yet another statistic to fuel the opioid epidemic. Start recovery the right way with our detox programs. Reach out to Serenity House Detox & Recovery today at 866.516.8356 to find out how we can help you or a loved one.
