The United States is in the midst of an opioid epidemic, with drug overdose deaths rising at a staggering pace. In fact, the number of people who died from overdoses last year surpassed those who died from car crashes for the first time ever. And while some people are quick to blame prescription painkillers like Vicodin and Percocet for this increase in deaths—and there’s no denying that these drugs can be incredibly dangerous when used improperly. Here are some ways to help Americans overcome substance addiction:
Find And Treat Pain That Drives People To Seek Drugs
Pain is a common cause of drug addiction. It can be treated with other drugs, such as non-opioid painkillers.
Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is an over-the-counter analgesic used in the relief of mild to moderate pain and fever. The recommended dose is 325 milligrams per day for children younger than 12 years old, 1,200 milligrams per day for adults older than 12 years old, and 4 grams (4,000 mg) daily for adults who weigh more than 136 pounds.
Ibuprofen (Motrin, Infanta-Max) belongs to a group of medications known as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). NSAIDs reduce inflammation by blocking prostaglandins that cause swelling in tissues or organs throughout the body.
Address Mental Health Problems
If you or someone you know has a mental illness, it’s important to address the underlying issues. This can help prevent substance abuse and lead to healthier lives.
Here are some ways to get started:
Talk with your doctor about medications that may be able to help manage any symptoms of depression, anxiety, or other disorders. These include antidepressants like Prozac (fluoxetine), Zoloft (sertraline), and Lexapro (escitalopram
Treat Addiction As A Chronic Disease
Treating addiction as a chronic disease is the best way to help Americans overcome substance abuse. People who have substance abuse problems need treatment for their entire lives, not just one time.
The treatment programs should be long-term and available to everyone, not just the rich or famous people who can afford them on their own. The government needs more funding for these programs because they are not able or willing to pay them out of pocket. There are few rehab centers such as Sunrise Native Recovery.
Make Sure Treatment Is Available
Once you’ve made the decision to seek help, it’s important that you know how to get treatment. There are many options available, but only a few will work for you and your loved ones.
Make sure treatment is affordable:
Most Americans don’t have access to treatment because they can’t afford it (or they don’t know where or how). But there are ways of finding affordable services that aren’t just limited by geography—and those who do have access aren’t always getting reimbursed at the right levels.
Get quality care:
If your doctor isn’t able or willing to prescribe medication for addiction recovery, then look elsewhere! Your life depends on getting proper medical assistance so ask around among friends and family members until someone agrees with what needs fixing first before moving forward with anything else.
A Multi-Pronged Approach Can Help Curb America’s Drug Addiction Crisis
A multi-pronged approach is the best way to help America overcome its drug addiction crisis. The US needs to address the underlying causes of drug addiction, treat it as a chronic disease and make sure treatment is available.
Conclusion
Our current drug crisis is a serious problem, and it’s getting worse. If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, help is available. Make sure to check out Sunrise Native Recovery by visiting their official website sunrisenativerecovery.com
