Drug addiction is a major issue in Illinois, with thousands of people suffering from substance abuse and addiction. According to The Illinois Department of Health, opioid use disorder is one of the most common substance abuse disorders in Illinois, with 15.6 out of every 100,000 people dying from opioid-related overdoses.
According to American Medical Association, the annual economic burden of opioid abuse in the US is estimated to be $78.5 billion. Additionally, the misuse of prescription opioids costs insurance companies up to $72.5 billion per year. The US government has invested over $6 billion to combat the opioid crisis, but it’s difficult to see if much progress has been made.
In the United States, opioid use disorder affects people of all ages, races, and genders.
In order to address the opioid crisis, it is important to understand the scope of the problem. This includes understanding drug addiction statistics related to opioids including how many people are affected by substance
Signs and Symptoms of Opioid Use Disorder
Common signs and symptoms of opioid use disorder include the following:
- Increased tolerance – Over time, individuals may need to take more of the drug to achieve the same effects.
- Withdrawal symptoms – If an individual stops or reduces their use of opioids, they may experience physical and emotional symptoms, such as nausea, sweating, anxiety, and depression.
- Cravings – Individuals may experience strong urges or cravings to use opioids.
- Social withdrawal – Individuals may lose interest in activities they previously enjoyed and withdraw from friends and family.
- Continued use despite negative consequences – Individuals may continue to use opioids, even though it is causing job loss, relationship problems, and other negative consequences.
- Neglecting responsibilities – Individuals may begin to neglect work, school, and home responsibilities.
There is hope. If you or a loved one is suffering from opioid use disorder, there are effective treatment options available. No matter how long someone has been using opioids or how severe their opioid use disorder is, there are still options.
It is also important to be aware of the many challenges individuals face when trying to stop using opioids. These challenges include physical and psychological cravings, depression, anxiety, lack of motivation, fear of withdrawal symptoms, and difficulty sleeping or concentrating. In addition to these physical challenges, individuals may also experience social stigma.
Ways to Get Help for Opioid Use Disorder
- Find a treatment center – The first step to recovery is finding a treatment center that specializes in opioid use disorder. Northern Illinois Recovery Center offers evidence-based treatments such as medication-assisted treatment and therapy to help patients recover from opioid addiction.
- Attend support groups – Getting involved in support groups like Narcotics Anonymous (NA) and Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) can be an effective way to find support and guidance throughout the recovery process.
- Talk to a healthcare professional – If you are struggling with opioid use disorder, speaking with a healthcare professional can be a vital step in finding the right treatment plan for you.
By taking these steps and seeking help, you can start your journey towards a life free from opioid use disorder. With the right support and treatment, you can live a healthier and happier life.