In a four-year period, the number of opioid-related overdose deaths in Illinois nearly quadrupled, with numbers continuing to rise. [1]
Recently, there have been lawsuits filed against opioid manufacturers who are believed to be responsible for the epidemic. While these lawsuits focus on the construction industry’s risks, people from all professions, ages, and incomes face risks. Our team is committed to fighting the rise of opioid use in Illinois.
Opioid Use in Illinois
There are several reasons that opioid overdoses in Illinois are so numerous, including the growth of synthetic drugs. Many people engaging in opioid use in Illinois are using synthetic drugs such as fentanyl. These drugs are incredibly deadly, often more potent than heroin or prescription pills. Though Narcan can save a life when administered at the onset of drug overdose symptoms, Narcan is not always available and increasingly potent synthetic drugs require higher doses for successful treatment.
Illinois Overdose Statistics
In The Prairie State, people are more likely to die from opioid overdoses than car crashes. Opioid overdose deaths are 1.5 times more common than homicide deaths and 2 times as common as deaths from car crashes. [2] Opioid overdoses in Illinois are outnumbering those in nearby states, but help is out there.
Treating Opioid Addiction in Illinois
Opioid addiction is leading to a growing number of opioid overdoses. Those who are struggling are encouraged to reach out to an opioid treatment program for help in finding sobriety. Needle exchanges and safe use spaces are helping to deter overdoses, but they are only a band aid on the bigger problem. Enrolling in a program for residential drug treatment in Illinois can help prevent the growth of unsettling overdose statistics.
At Banyan Heartland, we can treat opioid addiction with detox, PHP, inpatient, and IOP treatment in Illinois. Our programs are personalized to individual patient needs, treating the underlying causes of addiction.
If you or someone you love needs help finding sobriety from opioid addiction, call 888-280-4763 to learn more about our treatment programs.
Sources:
- NIH: National Institute n Drug Abuse – Illinois Opioid Summary
- Illinois Department of Public Health – IDPH Data
