The opioid crisis in the United States has continued to escalate over the years, with addiction to opioids becoming a severe national public health issue. The impact of this crisis is profound, affecting countless individuals and their families. At Banyan Treatment Centers in Milford, we’re closely examining the Delaware opioid crisis and the associated dangers of opioid abuse.
How Opioids Affect the Brain
Opioids interact with the brain’s neurons to block pain, often resulting in feelings of euphoria. This temporary sense of well-being can be dangerously misleading, as the consequences of opioid abuse quickly overshadow these fleeting sensations.
Short-Term Effects of Opioids:
- Euphoria
- Suppressed breathing
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Impaired cognitive functions
Many individuals who abuse opioids report that their initial experience with the drug is transformative, but not in a positive way. They often spend significant time and money trying to replicate that first high, leading to severe long-term consequences.
Long-Term Effects of Opioid Use:
- Impaired decision-making
- Development of tolerance, dependence, and addiction
- Respiratory infections
- Chronic pain and muscle damage
Common opioids include natural forms like morphine, synthetic opioids such as methadone, and semisynthetic options like oxycodone and illegal opioids such as heroin. Heroin and fentanyl are particularly notorious, contributing significantly to the crisis in Delaware and nationwide. Banyan offers comprehensive detox services in Delaware to address withdrawal symptoms, treat opioid addiction and support recovery.
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The Opioid Epidemic in Delaware
Despite its small size, Delaware is deeply affected by the opioid crisis. Prescription painkillers, heroin, and synthetic opioids have devastated communities throughout the state.
Prescription opioids are a major factor in the crisis. In 2018, Delaware’s opioid prescription rate was 60.6 per 100 persons, exceeding the national average of 51.4. Many individuals who begin with prescription opioids transition to heroin, exacerbating the state’s crisis.
Heroin remains a significant concern, with the DEA identifying it as the top drug threat in Delaware. The proximity to Philadelphia has made high-purity heroin readily available, leading many who become dependent on prescription opioids to seek out heroin for its stronger effects and lower cost. Additionally, the rise of fentanyl, a potent synthetic opioid, has further intensified the crisis, as it is often mixed with other drugs, increasing their potency and the risk of overdose.
Opioid Overdose Deaths in Delaware
The consequences of the opioid crisis are severe. In 2018, nearly 70% of all drug overdose deaths in the U.S. involved opioids; in Delaware, this figure rose to 88%, with 355 opioid-related deaths. Recent years have seen a dramatic increase in deaths due to synthetic opioids, and this trend is expected to continue if current patterns persist.
Addressing the Opioid Epidemic
Experts agree that combating the opioid crisis requires community involvement, improved coordination of care, and the adoption of less addictive pain management alternatives as well as the integration of health and human services to provide comprehensive support. Expanding resources, tackling opioid misuse and addressing the stigma surrounding addiction are also crucial. At Banyan Treatment Centers, we are committed to making a difference in this challenging environment.
Treatment Therapy Options
Effective treatment for opioid addiction often involves a combination of therapies tailored to the individual’s needs. At Banyan Treatment Centers, our approach includes:
- Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT): MAT combines medications like methadone, buprenorphine, or naltrexone with counseling and behavioral therapies. These medications help manage withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings, making it easier for individuals to focus on their recovery.
- Behavioral Therapy: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and contingency management are common approaches. CBT helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors, while contingency management offers rewards for maintaining sobriety.
- Individual Counseling: Personalized counseling sessions provide a space for individuals to address underlying issues related to their addiction, set goals for recovery, and develop coping strategies.
- Group Therapy: Group therapy sessions offer peer support and a sense of community. Sharing experiences with others who are facing similar challenges can be motivating and therapeutic.
- Family Therapy: Involving family members in the recovery process helps address dynamics that may contribute to addiction and supports rebuilding relationships.
- Holistic Therapies: Complementary therapies such as yoga, meditation, and nutritional counseling can enhance overall well-being and support the recovery process.
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Solutions to the Opioid Epidemic
According to medical experts, ending this crisis must involve genuine community involvement, more sufficient coordination of care, and most importantly, more consistent use of less addictive pain control methods. Additionally, resources should be expanded to meet the severity of this epidemic, while the societal stigma surrounding addiction and illicit drug use should be addressed. The latter of these solutions is especially important to us because at the root of any addiction is a human being crying out for help.
Because we are a substance abuse treatment center in Milford, the Delaware opioid crisis is especially concerning, but we want to continue working to make a difference. If you or someone you care about is addicted to opioids of any kind, do not wait until it is too late to get them help. Addiction can seem daunting to handle on one's own, which is why our Delaware drug rehab offers a variety of treatment levels that can comprehensively address all facets of their dependency while teaching them more beneficial ways to get through their days.
To learn more about our programs at Banyan Treatment Centers Delaware and how we may be able to help you or a loved one, call us today at 888-280-4763.
Sources:
- Voices for Non-Opioid Choices - Delaware’s Opioid Crisis
- DEA - The Drug Situation in Delaware
- NDIC - Delaware Drug Threat Assessment
- University of Delaware - Opioid Use Disorder in Delaware: Policies and Programs
- Delaware Health and Social Services - Drug Overdose Deaths
- NIH - Seeking Solutions to the Opioid Crisis
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