There is a reason the Opioid Crisis is garnering much attention these days from activist groups and lawmakers alike. The prescription drug problem is a very significant and prevalent issue that many Americans are facing. Approximately 18 million Americans improperly abused prescription drugs in the year 2017, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse.

The disturbing fact about this type of drug abuse is how innocently it can start out. Even the most unsuspecting can find themselves in a situation where they never thought they’d be. It is very easy for an individual recovering from surgery or a person who injured themselves in a normal daily task to find themselves prescribed prescription painkillers. Then, before they realize, they are needing the pills and are addicted to these highly intoxicating substances.

The Beginnings of Abuse

The Prevalence of Prescription Drug Abuse

Some individuals are predisposed to addiction. Experts believe that addiction is, at least partially, genetic. Doctors at the Montefiore Medical Center of New York have found that it is highly likely for those who have a family history of addictive behaviors to be far more sensitive to addiction themselves. For this reason, if you have a family member that has struggled, it is in all likelihood that you could have the same issues.

Scientists are studying the genetic component of addiction. While there may never be one single gene that is found that directly causes addiction, it is important to understand that this sickness is a comprehensive and complex issue. Your heredity background, as well as influences in your environment, can all play a part in addiction manifestation.

Additionally, other factors can have a significant relation to one’s disposition for engaging in risky to unhealthy behaviors which can lead to addiction. Childhood trauma, like sexual or physical abuse, can lead to addiction. Even the loss of a close family member may cause one to turn to drugs or alcohol to cope.

Mental disease is another factor that can have a strong link to abuse. When people are suffering mentally, the may often feel the only way for relief is self-medication. The use of drugs or alcohol to accomplish this is a slippery road and can easily turn into an addiction.

Accessibility

Another important factor in the opioid phenomenon that is a leading contributor to the problem is the ability for individuals to easily have access to these drugs. Because of this, the rates of overdose are much higher for these prescriptions than they are for illegal substances. People admitted to a treatment program for the use of painkillers actually increased by an astounding 400% from 1998 to 2008.

Finding a Treatment Center

Discovery Place is a tremendous place to find resources to help you overcome and heal from your addiction. The 12-Step program offered incorporates medical care and integrated health approaches at a cost that is one of the most affordable in the country. Our residential component in addition to our long-term care program provides guidance and support from start to finish and beyond. We are here to help you be successful. Call us at 1-800-725-0922 for more information about our programs.  

Testimonials

  • Discovery Place was the answer for my son. He did the 90 day and then the step down program and sober living. We give this organization 10 stars. They met my son where he was …emotionally, mentally, physically. They helped him put his life back on track. Discovery Place employees care about their guests. If your son, brother, nephew, grandson or husband needs excellent supportive care THIS is indeed the facility.

    Kim Morton
    Alumni Parent
  • I have remained sober and it is because of DP. DP is the best place there is, hands down. I keep everyone there in my prayers, and I encourage everyone there to take what they are practicing and do it in their lives, after.

    Roy Mantelli
    Alumni
  • Over the past year, I’ve been putting into actin what Discovery Place taught me, and I have experienced a complete perspective change of the world, and the people in it. I get to be a man of service and love today, and for that I am grateful to Discovery Place.

    Matt Kassay
    Alumni
  • Discovery Place means the world to me. They showed me the tools that I’ve tried to use everyday in my life to think less often of myself, and more frequently of others. I am learning to lend a hand when I am able and to have a honest and humble relationship with God and the people around me. Not only am I clean and sober, but also I am happy and fulfilled.

    Tommy Parker
    Alumni
  • Discovery Place and the men who work there made recovery attractive, and more importantly, fun. There is strength in the struggle. I am forever grateful for my time at Discovery Place.

    Creed McClellan
    Alumni
  • When I got to Discovery Place my whole life was in shambles, but I didn’t know it. I spent 6 months in their programs, participating in all three phases, and was met with kindness and love all along the way. It is unbelievable to me, where I am now relative to where I was when I arrived at DP.

    Lance Duke
    Alumni
  • I can never say enough good things about Discovery Place and the people who work there. Before checking in to DP, I was out of options and out of answers. Fortunately, Discovery Place has a solution. Taking suggestions from the staff at DP saved my life, and as a result, I’m now more content and hopeful about life. I’m grateful for Discovery Place showing me how to live a healthy life so that I can become a better man and help the next guy.”

    Tyler Buckingham
    Alumni

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