Opioid Epidemic
WhAT IS THE OPIOID EPIDEMIC?
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What is the best way to end the epidemic?
The opioid epidemic, one of the most pressing issues facing our country right now, is the crisis involving opioid misuse. It has progressively gotten worse over time. Opioids are used to treat the 125 million Americans (hyperlink) suffering from chronic pain. The issue is, however, thousands of people suffer a reliance and addiction to these prescriptions. Just last year, over 30,000 people died from the epidemic.
The biggest question is, what is the best way to end the opioid epidemic? There are several different strategies currently being employed to stop the epidemic. Some stress education and awareness, some describe legislative improvements as the key, while others stress limiting the number of prescriptions would dramatically decrease overdoses. There are several different strategies being posed and used, but throughout my research, I have realized one to be the most important aspect: drug treatment programs. Drug treatment programs are necessary because with so many people addicted to opioids, it is crucial they have outlets to deal with their addiction that can help them.