Opioid Epidemic Statistics

It’s no secret that there is a growing opioid epidemic in the United States. Nonetheless, it’s hard to understand the true scope of the problem. By looking at specific opioid epidemic statistics, you can see precisely how opioid drugs are negatively impacting millions. While these statistics can seem worrying, there are excellent opportunities for addiction recovery.

2 Million Americans are Dependent on Opiates

Take a long, hard look at that number–two million. That means a significant portion of the United States population has an addiction to opioid drugs. The opioid epidemic is not just a small problem that’s getting a lot of media attention. It is a serious and growing concern, and almost everyone knows someone who has been impacted by opioid drug abuse.

23% of Those Who Try Heroin Will Become Addicted

Opiates are not the only drug that is abused in the United States or around the world. Why, then, is there such an emphasis on the abuse of opiate drugs? The most prominent reason is that opiates are an incredibly addictive class of drugs.

Nearly one in four people who try heroin just one time will become addicted to the drug. That means awareness and education are essential because experimentation can quickly become a debilitating and potentially lifelong struggle.

80% of Those Addicted to Heroin First Used Prescription Opioids

Often, campaigns to raise drug awareness emphasize how dangerous heroin can be. That’s undoubtedly true, but most people already know all about the risks of heroin abuse. Nonetheless, people still abuse heroin at staggering rates.

For most people, however, prescription drugs are the gateway to heroin. A whopping 80 percent of heroin users first abused prescription drugs. If prescription opiates become too expensive or are not readily accessible, then heroin becomes a viable alternative. To stop heroin addiction, it is vital to stop prescription opioid addictions as well.

There are 259 Million Opioid Prescriptions Written Every Year

In 2012, there were more than 259 million prescriptions written for opioid painkillers. That’s enough for every single adult in America to get a bottle of opiates. That is a sign of a severe problem.

While some of these prescriptions are legitimate and even medically necessary, much more are not. Often, prescription painkillers go to patients without proper warning of the addictive qualities. Prescriptions are sometimes written illegally with the knowledge that the users will abuse the drugs. To reduce opioid addiction, we need to make it harder to access opioid medications in the first place.

Responding to These Opioid Epidemic Statistics

If these opioid epidemic statistics are discouraging, remember that recovery is possible. At Beaches Recovery, clients can expect a comprehensive and effective approach that goes from detox all the way to continuing care at a residential drug rehab. Along the way, treatments and therapies can include:

• Dialectical behavioral therapy
• Family therapy
• 12 step recovery program for group support
• Fitness therapy
• Trauma therapy

There is no doubt that opioid abuse and addiction has become an epidemic in the United States. If you or someone you love struggles with addiction, then consider treatment at Beaches Recovery in Jacksonville, Florida. Call us at 866.605.0532 today to learn more about programs designed to combat heroin addiction for good.