Opiate addiction treatment is on the rise, and that directly correlates to the heroin epidemic sweeping the nation. It is not a problem confined to big cities, but can happen in the smallest of towns. Why is heroin use on the rise and what can we do about it? Let’s take a closer look at what is happening and what we can do about it.

The Heroin Epidemic

Heroin is an opiate, a class of drugs that includes hydrocodone and OxyContin. The National Institute on Drug Abuse reports that in 2011, 4.2 million Americans aged 12 or older had used heroin at least once in their lives. An estimated 23 percent of those who use heroin develop a dependence on it. The more heroin someone uses, the higher their tolerance, and the more they take to feel high.

We have seen celebrities such as Philip Seymour Hoffman and Janis Joplin succumb to heroin abuse, but it’s not just the rich and famous who are affected. As a result, opiate addiction treatment is in high demand. The drug is accessible in forms that you may not expect, including easy-to-procure prescription painkillers.

Making a Change

Why is opiate addiction on the rise? One reason can be attributed to a lack of resources. Many people assume that because prescription drugs are given by a doctor, they are safe. However, the key is that these drugs are safe when used as prescribed. All too often, people take painkillers that haven’t been prescribed to them or take larger doses than prescribed. Just as with heroin, you can develop a tolerance to other opiates, which leads to people taking more painkillers in order to achieve the same relief.

We need to increase access to resources about opiate use. This includes expanding access to and opportunities for opiate addiction treatment, as well as stepping up education about the dangers of prescription painkiller abuse. When someone becomes addicted to painkillers, that addiction can quickly transfer to other, harder drugs like heroin.

Opiate Addiction Treatment

Opiate addiction treatment can help you deal with your addiction and can help keep you from transferring the addiction to other sources. Treatment comes in varying forms, including inpatient or partial hospitalization; each person will have different needs. With treatment, you can turn your life around and collect resources to help you stay in recovery. Like any other addiction, opiate addiction cannot be cured, but it can be managed. Recovery is a lifelong journey, which means that the accompanying rewards can last a lifetime too!

If you or someone you love is suffering from the effects of alcohol abuse, substance addiction or any other type of addiction, please call us today.  Our addiction treatment counselors can help you deal with physical, emotional and psychological consequences of drug and alcohol abuse.  A substance abuse treatment program is effective, safe and has helped many men reclaim their lives. Destination Hope is a full service drug, alcohol and dual diagnosis treatment facility in Florida for men suffering from substance abuse and mental health issues.