Ready (But Actually Not), Heroin Is Here
As the government cracks down on “doctor shopping,” or going to multiple doctors to obtain pain medication which by the way is illegal in Florida, and America becomes increasingly aware of the dangers of opioid abuse, people already addicted to opioids looking to satisfy their need/illness are turning to a cheaper and more easily accessible alternative: good ole heroin.
Like the 1980’s anti-drug commercial says, “no one ever says, ‘I want to be a junkie when I grow up.’” The same is true over 30 years later. People don’t seek out addiction.
Two important predictors of drug use are: availability and a low perception of harm. So what helps create an opioid epidemic? People perceive them to be safe because they are legal – and they are widely prescribed and easy to obtain. In fact, the source of the opioids is typically from friends and family. 67% of all abused pain meds come from someone you know, not a stranger, drug dealer or the internet.
And people who abuse opioids are 40 times more likely to abuse heroin. Not very good odds, if you ask me.
What baffles me is when I see addiction portrayed in movies, on TV or in celebrity magazines as something that people can just check into rehab for and quickly and easily overcome. Unfortunately, that’s not the case. Recovery often involves relapse and many recovered addicts experience some difficulties for the remainder of their lives.
We are dealing with a national crisis, as America in many ways lacks the infrastructure to support it, especially in rural communities. Overwhelming to think about, isn’t it?
The good news is – there’s something you can do in your own home and community:
- Lock Your Meds.
- Take regular inventory of your medication so you know if something is missing.
- Safely dispose of unused or expired medication
- Spread the word (this is a great short video to share)
We appreciate your support.
Peggy
