The war against drugs isn’t a new battle for America. The country is steadily fighting against the dangerous repercussions of drug use, dating back to the 1890s. Today, the fight against drugs turns to focus on the opioid crisis in America. While opioid addiction treatment centers in southern California are doing their part to help those in the opioid epidemic, the country must continue to fight. Learn more about the issue and how you can help, or receive the help you need.
Understanding the Opioid Crisis in America
Before you can do your part to help with the current opioid epidemic, you must understand how we got here. The main cause of the opioid crisis in America stems from the prescriptions of the 1990s. During this time, the pharmaceutical companies told the public that pain relievers using opioids weren’t addictive.
Trusting the companies, more medical professionals began writing prescriptions for their patients. As time went on and more individuals began to misuse the medications, it became obvious that the drugs were indeed addictive.
Now, the opioid crisis statistics continue to sit at a high. Thankfully, a declaration of a public state of emergency came from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services in 2017. Such a statement made it possible for more funding and resources to place focus on fighting the opioid epidemic.
Opioid Crisis Statistics
Just how severe is the opioid crisis in America? Here are some opioid crisis statistics to consider from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services:
- Over 130 individuals die from a drug overdose involving opioids
- Over 28,000 deaths occur from an overdose on synthetic opioids
- 11 million people continue to misuse prescriptions for pain relievers
- In 2017, 81,000 people became heroin users for the first time
These numbers show a dangerous trend that currently shows no sign of slowing down. Fortunately, numerous California medical providers are working together to reduce these rising opioid crisis statistics. However, without more education and treatment available to those in need, the numbers will continue to rise. By recognizing the need for help and changing the stigma surrounding the opioid epidemic, more people can begin the journey towards recovery.
Get The Help You Need for the Opioid Epidemic
The Hub and Spoke system is here to create a new, integrated health system for the state of California. The CLARE|MATRIX Opioid Treatment Program is one of the two Hubs for the greater Los Angeles area. With this new system, fighting the opioid crisis in America is possible.
If you think you may be struggling with a substance use disorder, talk with your healthcare provider, call CLARE|MATRIX at 866.452.5273 or contact any of our Spokes.
Interested in becoming a local area Spoke? Contact the CLARE|MATRIX Hub at 323.938.8187 today.