Heroin use has drastically increased in the United States in recent years. As a result of more frequent abuse, heroin overdose has also become a much more common event throughout the country. The information below will discuss the relevant factors that influence the increased use of heroin and the growing risk of a heroin overdose in the United States.
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4 Factors Influencing Heroin Abuse
The rates of heroin use have jumped in recent years. The increase holds true for specific demographic groups that before had low rates of heroin abuse. Most noteworthy, the three factors below are influencing the rates of heroin addiction today.
1. Increased Rates of Prescription Opioid Abuse
Opioid prescription painkillers are among some of the most often prescribed medications today. They carry a very high risk of dependence and eventual addiction. A notable trend indicates that many of those now addicted to heroin may have gotten started by abusing prescription opioids.
2. Increased Availability of Heroin
Heroin availability is climbing in almost all areas across the country. With heroin becoming widely available and more affordable than ever before, it’s no wonder that the number of people experimenting with this drug continues to increase.
3. High Potency and Purity
Last but not least, the purity and potency of the heroin that is widely available today have also increased. In addition, there is no form of “quality control,” so you don’t know how potent the substance is until you use it. With a higher strength and purity, the risk of addiction is that much greater due to the powerful effects this drug can create in those using it.
Why Is Heroin Overdose an Increasing Problem?
As we have discovered from the information above, many communities across America have seen an increased rate of heroin use and abuse. There are several factors at play in this increase, as seen below.
Using various substances together can drastically increase the effects experienced by each one. It’s typical for those addicted to heroin to be using prescription medications or alcohol at the same time. Unfortunately, the combined impacts experienced from abusing multiple substances can lead to an increased risk of a heroin overdose. Furthermore, many people mistakenly think a drug overdose only occurs after an extended period of use and addiction. However, an overdose can happen for first-time heroin users.
Get Treatment at Your Memphis, TN Rehab Center
Memphis Recovery is a non-profit addiction treatment and drug rehab center with over 40 years of substance abuse treatment experience helping others reach recovery. Even more, our recovery program focuses on creating a highly individualized treatment approach based on the needs and goals of each client. In addition, with a caring atmosphere and home-like amenities, Memphis Recovery strives to make the process of recovery as comfortable as possible. We offer a wide array of addiction treatment options, including:
- Inpatient addiction treatment
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- Outpatient treatment
- Addiction therapy services
If you are facing addiction issues, you don’t have to let them control your life. You can overcome your addiction with the help of a quality rehab center. To learn about the treatment options available to you, contact Memphis Recovery Centers today at 901-272-7751 to find out how we can help you get started on the path to recovery.
