Overdose deaths due to opioids have increased 500% in young adults over the last 20 years. Even more alarming, 2 in 10 high school seniors has taken a prescription drug for a non-medical purpose, and Tampa Bay’s opioid overdose rate is 50.5% higher than the national average.
Parents are often the first to notice changes in their children, but identifying them is only the first step if your child is using opioids or other drugs. It can be challenging to approach the conversation, but if there are any concerns that your child has started using opioids, seeking opioid abuse treatment is an immediate action step you will want to take.
Our team at Phoenix House Florida, specializing in opioid abuse treatment in Tampa, has put together the following list to help you have a conversation with your teen.
Facts about the Opioid Epidemic
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has identified three primary waves defining the epidemic, with death rates rising due to opioid-related uses over four times the amount since 1999. Opioid addiction at such a widespread level resulted primarily from increased prescription opioids.
The next two waves involved rapid increases in heroin and synthetic opioids, particularly fentanyl. In 2017, HHS declared the use of opioids a public health emergency.
In our own community in Tampa, FL, with rising death rates, the focus of treatment is geared toward informing those in the community about the dangers of synthetic drugs. These drugs may have the same names as those you have heard before, but are laced with more potent chemicals. In this latest wave, ensuring that proper information is shared is vital in combating the crisis in our own backyard.
Elements of the 5-Point Strategy
1) Access to better prevention, treatment, and recovery services
HHS has strategically provided millions of dollars in grants since 2017 to support greater access to drug addiction treatment centers.
2) Better Data on the Epidemic
With better data, better decisions can be made regarding improving the crisis. This involves supporting more timely public health data, especially regarding overdoses.
3) Better Pain Management
Opioid addiction treatment is a lengthy process. The HHS ensures evidence-based methods back everything surrounding this process.
4) Better Availability of Overdose-Reversing Drugs
The HHS’s plan includes a larger strategy for supplying and delivering lifesaving overdose reversing drugs to anyone in the population that may need them. They have secured an additional budget to make sure goals are met.
5) Better Research on Pain and Addiction
Actionable steps to ensure pain management is covered in point three; however, continuing to support research that leads to further preventative and recovery measures is key to combating the opioid epidemic long term.
How Does the 5-Step Plan Ensure Change?
Addressing all the elements in the 5-point plan ensures that people who are currently needing opioid addiction treatment in Tampa are provided the quality of care necessary to make a complete, safe recovery that lasts.
The plan also helps to set the standard across every drug addiction treatment center in Tampa and beyond, and continues to allow for innovation, so that anyone on the journey to recovery has the support they need. Funding a plan that provides this also helps those in minority groups or with less stability in their life get the help they need.
What Should You Do if You or a Loved One Needs Help?
You should never hesitate to get the help you or someone close to you needs. Phoenix House Florida is a drug addiction treatment center in Tampa that is here to support you on your journey from start to end.
If you or a loved one are struggling with addiction, join a community committed to your recovery. Contact Phoenix House Florida, a drug addiction treatment center in Tampa, FL, today. To schedule a consultation with Phoenix House Florida, please request an appointment today.
Disclaimer: The contents of this website are for general educational purposes only. All content and media on the Phoenix House Florida website does not constitute professional medical advice nor is the information intended to replace the services provided by Phoenix House Florida or other qualified medical professionals. If you believe you are having a medical emergency, call 911 immediately.