One of the most stressful issues people face are addiction issues. It is especially hard if it is a child. Finding ways to help them can be emotionally and mentally taxing. Unfortunately, Opioid drugs are dangerously addictive. Although Opioids are often prescribed for pain, they can cause unintentional addiction. This has lead to a surge in adults who are addicted to the pain killers. Teens may also use them thinking it is safe or possibly for their own health problems and end up addicted as well.
I unfortunately saw this happen to my brother as a teen. He was already having some trouble with drugs and then ended up with a back problem. The doctor prescribed OxyContin for his pain. My brother spent years battling this addiction well past his teens. These drugs are dangerous and it is very important to seek help immediately.
I also worked in a pain clinic where I saw these meds being prescribed liberally. I saw patients coming in begging for more and doctors shaking their heads sadly after they left knowing these people had developed a problem.
Opioid use needs more attention and awareness to curb this dangerous addiction. Understanding, support, and medical help are necessary to help someone dealing with addiction. Fortunately, there is help. Bacon Street has services to help. Please go to The Opioid Epidemic on the Our Services page to learn more about what we offer.
This article from the Washington post shares more statistics about the dangers of Opioid abuse. Teens often mix these drugs with others leading to dangerous combinations. Often the addiction can lead to heroin use as it is a cheaper alternative. Teens are at risk due to their lack of knowledge of the dangers. Most of the overdose deaths in teens, 80% according to the article, are unintentional. Speaking to teens early and often about the dangers of these drugs is immensely important.
The Washington Post: After declining for several years, teen drug overdose deaths inched up in 2015
Another good article to read is on the Health Journals website, in which our own Kim Dellinger shares her knowledge on the subject.
