In the past 20 years, the number of individuals reporting opioid addictions and opioid-related overdose deaths skyrocketed. These opioid addiction statistics caused major waves among the American people, making everyone realize that the problem is spiraling out of control. Currently, the United States faces an opioid crisis that claims the lives of thousands every year.
Opioid Addiction Statistics
In the United States, young adults, especially young men, and the elderly have the highest risk for opioid abuse and addiction. In the 1990s, opioid addiction statistics reflected a climb in opioid addictions. This was due to the over-prescription of painkillers by medical professionals. At the time, they didn’t realize the addiction potential these substances had.
Those with chronic pain or post-surgery pain used these painkillers to manage their symptoms and eventually became dependent on their pain-numbing effects. Unfortunately, without recognition of the addictive potential of opioid painkillers, many developed addictions.
Another reason for the high rates of opioid addictions is the easy accessibility. Often, parents forget to dispose of or properly store opioid painkillers once they finish using them. According to opioid addiction statistics, 11% of teenagers used prescription painkillers recreationally. It’s more than likely that these adolescents had access to these medications from their parents’ medicine cabinets.
The earlier a person begins abusing prescription painkillers, the more likely they are to develop a hydrocodone, oxycodone, or tramadol addiction and then move on to more dangerous substances.
From Prescription Painkillers to Illicit Substances
The biggest danger with prescription painkiller abuse is the risk for a person to move onto more dangerous substances, such as heroin or fentanyl. According to opioid addiction statistics, three in four individuals with a heroin addiction originally began with prescription painkiller addictions.
As prescription painkillers become less available, or too weak to maintain a satisfying high, individuals move onto stronger and stronger drugs. Fentanyl is 50 times more potent than heroin. Carfentanil, a fentanyl analog, is 100 times stronger than fentanyl.
Signs of Opioid Addiction
While the reality of opioid addiction statistics can be scary, it’s important to be aware of the signs of opioid addiction so you can save the life of someone you love. Recognizing these symptoms early could prevent an opioid overdose. The most common symptoms include:
- Poor performance at work or school
- Defensive about whereabouts and new friends
- Sudden financial problems
- Irritability and mood swings
- Poor judgment and concentration
If you notice these signs in someone you love, it’s important to talk about them about opioid addiction statistics and their options for treatment.
Treatment for Opioid Addiction
Don’t let your loved one become one of these opioid addiction statistics. If someone in your life struggles with opioid addiction, then it’s time to help them find treatment. Treatment for opioid addiction typically consists of opioid detox, residential treatment, and aftercare. However, a comprehensive addiction treatment facility will help you determine which treatment programs and modalities will work best for your loved one.
At Crestview Recovery Center, we offer a full continuum of addiction treatment options and offer services to refer you to a professional detox facility. In our programs, we offer services such as:
If you’re ready to take the next step and help your loved one find addiction treatment, then call the professionals at Crestview Recovery today at 866.262.0531. Don’t wait another day and get started with the facility that helps you and your family begin healing.
