Overdose deaths in Maryland are primarily associated with heroin, prescription opioid medications, fentanyl, and other synthetic opioids. Overdose deaths are almost exclusively related to fentanyl and fentanyl-related drugs. This is not so different from other places in the country. As of 2019, it’s statistically more likely someone will die as a result of an opioid overdose compared to death resulting from a car crash. It’s sensible to focus on aspects of the opioid epidemic that medical experts can control, such as prescription medications. The excessive distribution of opioid pain medication can be a gateway to the use of heroin and related street drugs. Doctors and pharmacists need to help protect the general public from the risks associated with opioid addiction by being extra cautious when filling opioid medication prescriptions.
If you or someone you care about is struggling with heroin or related opioid addiction, we encourage you to reach out to Fresh Start Recovery Center at 833.625.0398. In doing so, you’ll get more information about treatment options, including our heroin addiction treatment program. Early intervention is always ideal, but it’s never too late to get your life back on track. Recovery is always possible.
Understanding The Heroin Epidemic
Heroin has been a long-time culprit for addiction and overdose. When people think about opioids, they still often think about heroin, in particular, as the source of addiction. Heroin is a drug that is often available illegally on the streets. It may appear as a white or brown powder, but it can also be a black sticky material. Heroin is highly addictive and detrimental to the health of the user. This opioid can lead to blood-borne illnesses, like HIV, when people share needles, as well as a range of other health problems, such as:
- Collapsed veins
- Damaged nasal tissue
- Infection of the heart and valves
- Diseases of the liver and kidney
- Mental health problems
However, heroin itself has not been the primary drug that many people struggle with during recent years. In fact, opioid addictions tend to involve synthetic derivatives like fentanyl and carfentanil. These synthetic versions are many times more potent than heroin and are the reason why overdose deaths have increased dramatically in recent years.
Over time, anyone with a substance abuse disorder will develop tolerance and cravings. As a result, they may begin using more and more of the substance to achieve the same high or maintain a baseline feeling of normalcy. Drug habits often become more centered around maintenance as opposed to chasing a high. As a person builds tolerance and uses more and more of an addictive substance, they increase the chances of overdose.
Breaking The Habit
If you or someone you care about is showing signs of a substance abuse disorder, we encourage you to reach out for professional assistance. Common signs of heroin use can include:
- Withdrawal
- Tolerance
- Uncontrollable cravings
- Loss of interest
- Isolation
- Suicidal ideation
Fresh Start Recovery Center in Maryland offers a number of personalized opioid treatment programs. We work to treat the person rather than the addiction through a range of effective, evidence-based therapeutic options. If you are suffering from an addiction to heroin or other opioids, we can help. Reach out to Fresh Start Recovery Center today.
Contact Fresh Start Today to Start Recovery
The medical professionals at Fresh Start Recovery Center aim to provide the best possible recovery experience for our clients. That’s why our programs and services are tailored to meet your particular needs. We encourage you to reach out today at 833.625.0398 to speak with a trained representative who can help you pick the right treatment plan for you.
