It is now well documented, and publicized, that the United States is in the midst of a terrible and fatal opioid drug epidemic. On March 29, 2017, it was announced that New Jersey governor Chris Christie will lead a new national opioid commission whose task will be to figure out ways to fight the opioid epidemic.
In 2015, more than 52,000 people died of drug overdoses, nearly two-thirds of which were linked to opioids. This constitutes more deaths from overdoses than from any other time in American history. Vox, an American news and opinion website, listed, 15 facts that you may not be aware of about this crisis.
- Drug overdoses now kill more people than gun violence and car crashes combined
- Opioids deaths are on the rise
- Opioid overdoses are one reason US life expectancy declined for the first time in decades
- The epidemic is much worse in some states than others (West Virginia, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Ohio) to name a few
- By and large, the drug overdose epidemic has hit white Americans hardest
- Americans consume more opioids than any other country
- In some states, doctors have filed out more painkiller prescriptions than there are people
- Drug companies have made a lot of money from opioids
- Americans are reporting greater levels of pain (chronic pain)
- Painkillers are often prescribed for long periods of time, even though there is no evidence they effectively treat chronic pain
- States are now cracking down on opioid prescriptions
- Heroin is cheap, making it an easy alternative for painkillers
- Fentanyl has become a growing problem
- Anti-anxiety medications are involved in more overdoses as well
Most people who meet the definition for a drug use disorder don’t get treatment. It is clear that the United States has a tremendous fight ahead when it comes to combating this horrific problem which has cost so many their lives and devastated families and communities.
We’re Here to Help
The experienced and compassionate staff at New Bridge Foundation®, in Berkeley, California can help you or your loved one recover from heroin and fentanyl addiction issues: Click Here to contact us or Call (866) 772-8491
