The United States has been battling an opioid epidemic for many years. But, since the beginning of the virus pandemic, substance abuse and overdose deaths have increased significantly.
According to the CDC,
“The disruption to daily life due to the COVID-19 pandemic has hit those with substance use disorder hard. As we continue the fight to end this pandemic it’s important to not lose sight of different groups being affected in other ways. We need to take care of people suffering from unintended consequences.”
As the virus continues to place further restrictions on our lives, more people are likely to succumb to the dangers of substance use.
What’s Causing the Increases in Substance Abuse and Overdose Deaths?
The virus pandemic exacerbated the opioid crisis in several ways. As people struggle to cope with fear and anxiety during the lockdowns, many turn to drugs or alcohol for solace.
Some people began using alcohol, prescription anti-anxiety meds, or antidepressants for the first time during the pandemic. All of these substances can be highly addictive and dangerous if abused or used in combination with each other.
Others turned to street drugs such as cocaine, heroin, meth, or others. Unfortunately, many street drugs are laced with fentanyl, but drug dealers don’t reveal that information. So, the individuals who buy those drugs are often unaware of the deception. If they don’t already have a tolerance for opioids, they can easily overdose on fentanyl-enhanced street drugs.
Another contributing factor in the increased substance abuse and overdose deaths is the shortage of professional treatment programs. As a result of the pandemic, many treatment providers closed their facilities or had to limit their services.
Also, individuals who are in recovery found that their support system has been disrupted. They can no longer attend in-person group counseling sessions or self-help programs due to the lockdowns. Many of those venues were forced to close in response to social distancing mandates. Without their much-needed support, many of these individuals relapse.
Furthermore, many people who want or need treatment are afraid to expose themselves to the risks of group settings such as a rehab facility. According to the National Association of Addiction Treatment Providers, some members saw their patient numbers decrease by 40% or more.
These situations have led to many relapses, overdoses, and deaths since the pandemic began.
Shocking Statistics Reveal a Deadly Trend
Since the pandemic began, overdose deaths are up by more than 20,000 deaths compared to those recorded in 2019. The total number of fatal overdoses recorded in 2020 reached 93,331. Opioid-related deaths played a large role in these numbers. Here’s a breakdown of the increases, according to CDC data:
- Deaths attributed to synthetic opioids increased by 54%.
- Overdose deaths related to cocaine increased 21%.
- Fatal overdoses attributed to meth and other psychostimulants rose by 46%.
These increases span across all demographic groups.
The primary driver of the increased fatal overdoses is illicitly manufactured opioids such as fentanyl.
What Can be Done to Reduce Overdoses and Deaths?
Measures are being taken on local, state, and national levels to address the substance abuse and overdose death rates. The CDC is working with first responders, public health professionals, and harm reduction organizations, and community leaders to expand response and prevention resources.
Their agenda includes some of the following actions and recommendations in their Overdose Data to Action (OD2A) Plan:
- Expand overdose prevention education to empower individuals to make informed decisions.
- Increase availability and distribution of naloxone.
- Improve detection of outbreaks to facilitate an effective response.
- Increase availability of and access to substance abuse treatment programs.
- Provide early intervention for high-risk individuals.
Across the nation, thousands of prevention and education advocates work tirelessly to save lives from the devastation substance abuse brings. But, there’s much more that needs to be done to resolve the overdose crisis.
When addiction happens, the best recourse is professional treatment. Most people who try to quit on their own will relapse. In some cases, fatal overdose is the outcome. So, it’s never a good idea to try the cold-turkey approach. A person who is trying to overcome substance abuse needs a combination of physical and emotional therapy to effectively rid their mind and body of the addiction.
Cycles of Change Recovery: Where You’ll Learn to Live Drug-Free
Learning to live drug-free involves first ridding your body of the physical dependence on a drug. This is known as detox, and many people think it is a cure for addiction. The truth is, there is no “cure” for substance abuse. It requires determination and a lifelong commitment. Therefore, you’ll need therapy and counseling to address the emotional and mental issues that played a role in your drug use. This combination of treatment methods ensures that you are equipped to maintain sobriety after leaving our facility.
At Cycles of Change Recovery, we will help you identify the underlying reasons for your substance abuse. With this knowledge, you’ll be prepared to make the changes in your life that will keep you focused on your recovery goals.
With our individualized approach to treatment, you’ll regain the confidence and self-esteem that was damaged by drug abuse. You’ll also learn practical coping skills to help you stand strong when temptations arise.
Are you ready to claim your freedom from addiction? If so, learn more about our program by contacting our Palmdale, CA facility today.
Sources:
- cdc.gov/ – Overdose Deaths Accelerating During COVID-19
- cdc.gov/ – Overdose Data to Action
Drug and alcohol abuse in the workplace has steadily increased since the beginning of the virus pandemic in 2020. Since then, the number of workers who miss work or perform poorly on the job has nearly doubled. According to the 2020 Behavioral Health Impact Update, substance use now affects 49% of American workers.
As a result of employee substance use at home or in the workplace, companies suffer expensive consequences. The losses reach $100 billion a year, according to the National Clearinghouse for Alcohol and Drug Information (NCADI).
How Employee Substance Abuse Affects the Workplace
Substance abuse by employees can cause a variety of problems. These problems can include costly medical, social, and performance issues. Furthermore, they can affect both the employer and other employees who are trying to do a good job. So, if a person comes to work hungover, or uses substances while at work, the entire workplace suffers.
Substance abuse by workers can lead to the following issues:
- Repeated tardiness.
- Hungover, sleeping on the job.
- Poor decision-making.
- Inability to focus on tasks.
- Reduced efficiency.
- Trouble getting along with co-workers.
- Stealing from the employer or co-workers.
- Selling drugs while at work.
- Using drugs or alcohol while on the job.
- More likely to injure themselves or others.
Studies show that nearly 6% of heavy drinkers showed up at work high or drunk in the past year. With that in mind, could you recognize if a co-worker is using drugs or alcohol on the job?
Spotting a Co-Worker’s Substance Use on the Job
Surprisingly, substance use in the workplace is not as isolated as we might think. In fact, studies show that 10 to 20 percent of workers who died at work tested positive for drugs, alcohol, or both.
Here are some ways to detect drug and alcohol abuse in your workplace:
- Unexplained absenteeism. If someone is missing from their desk or worksite without an excuse or reason, it could be a sign they are using drugs or alcohol.
- Chronically late. If a coworker is always late on Mondays, it could be due to heavy partying over the weekend.
- Unexplained accidents. Someone who frequently gets odd injuries while at work may be high.
- Over-reacting to incidents. If a coworker goes into fits of rage over small things that happen during the workday, it may be a sign of substance use.
Of course, these suggestions are not meant to make you feel that you must spy on your coworkers. Also, there could be other explanations for their behavior. But, if you do notice these signs, how should you react?
How to Handle Suspected Workplace Substance Use
If you suspect a coworker of substance use during work time, it puts you in a tricky position. Do you say something, and risk the repercussions if you’re wrong? Or, if you don’t say anything, could someone get hurt and you’d feel responsible? It’s a difficult position to be in, but there are some subtle ways to handle the situation.
- Document any evidence you think will support your suspicions. This should only include workplace behaviors.
- Ask for a private meeting with your manager or human resources supervisor.
- Don’t confront the coworker yourself.
- Share your concerns with the manager and show them the evidence you documented.
- Let the manager or supervisor handle the situation from there.
Most companies today have specific guidelines to follow in these instances. In most cases, they will do what they can to help the person get treatment. Being caught or accused of substance use in the workplace doesn’t mean the person automatically loses their job. Many companies allow a person to return to work after completing a rehab program.
What Steps are Necessary to Create a Drug-Free Workplace?
When it comes to creating a culture that emphasizes a drug-free environment, business owners and managers have a big responsibility. But, they can reach out to state and federal resources for assistance.
Here are some things managers, supervisors, CEO’s, and other business professionals can do to prevent employee drug use at work:
- Establish a clear policy about workplace substance use.
- Include pre-employment drug testing and random drug testing.
- Make sure employees are informed about the consequences of failing a drug test.
- Allow time off for people in treatment or recovery from substance use according to the ADA guidelines.
- Provide health insurance for employees that includes coverage for substance abuse treatment.
- Ensure that the company drug policies are in compliance with federal or state laws.
Small businesses owners also struggle with drug and alcohol use in the workplace. Also, they are less likely to have programs in place to address the issue. For that reason, the US Department of Labor offers a workplace kit to help small business owners create and maintain a drug-free environment.
Drug and Alcohol Addiction Treatment at Cycles of Change Recovery
Recognizing drug and alcohol abuse in the workplace is a great start in reducing additions. But, making sure a person gets effective treatment is the ultimate goal. Choosing the right program is another way to ensure that a person overcomes an addiction.
At Cycles of Change Recovery, we offer a unique, individualized approach to treatment. We want our patients to get the perfect level of care for their specific needs. Also, our team of skilled professionals is dedicated to ensuring the comfort and safety of our patients as they progress through the program. We strive to help a person realize their true potential and provide the counseling and guidance they need to reach their goal of substance-free living.
Contact us today at our Palmdale, California facility to learn more about our programs. After you take this first step, we’ll be there to guide you through the rest.
Sources:
- businesswire.com/ – 49% of US Workers are Struggling with Alcohol and Substance Abuse
- standard.com/ – Behavioral Health in the Workplace
- workplace-dynamics.com/ – Building Blocks for a Drug-Free Workplace
Fentanyl is a Schedule II controlled synthetic opioid that can be addictive and dangerous whether used legally or illicitly. As a prescription painkiller, Fentanyl helps people manage pain following surgery or due to a chronic illness such as cancer. But, as a recreational drug, Fentanyl is a deadly substance that has killed many thousands of people. If you are wondering if the dangers of Fentanyl are real the answer is yes.
You only need to read a few news headlines for proof of how deadly this substance can be. Or, read the manufacturer’s directions booklet. The “important warning” clearly states that ‘Fentanyl may be habit-forming and should only be used to treat chronic pain.’ The warning also states that Fentanyl can cause severe harm or death if used by someone who has not been prescribed the medication. Furthermore, it warns that Fentanyl can cause serious breathing problems or death in those who are not tolerant to narcotic medications.
Shocking Fentanyl Statistics
Fatal overdoses involving Fentanyl increased 38.4 percent in 2020. Many deaths occurred because the individuals were unaware that the cocaine, meth, or heroin they bought was laced with Fentanyl. Furthermore, DEA analysts found counterfeit pills that contain .02 to 5.1 milligrams of Fentanyl which is twice the lethal dose.
Drug traffickers typically distribute Fentanyl in kilograms. The scary thing about this is that one kilogram can potentially kill 500,000 people.
More Proof of the Dangers of Fentanyl
If the above statistics haven’t convinced you of Fentanyl’s potential dangers, read some of the following news stories. Prepare to be shocked and saddened by some of these reports. These are only a few instances of the dangers of Fentanyl. Many more stories like these happen daily across the US.
- “The Flash” actor Logan Williams died from Fentanyl, coroner’s report reveals. The coroner’s report says the 16-year-old died from unintentional illicit drug toxicity (fentanyl). The manner of his death has been listed as accidental.
- Fentanyl-laced cocaine killed LA comedian: Comedian Fuquan Johnson died in Los Angeles after overdosing on fentanyl-laced cocaine. Two other people also died from the same substance. Kate Quigley, another comedian, was hospitalized.
- Drug house had enough fentanyl to kill 481,000 people: Florida deputies closed down a drug house after seizing 916 grams of Fentanyl. They also found 41.2 grams of Sulfamethoxazole and Trimethoprim, syringes, and other drug paraphernalia.
- Shipment of Fentanyl had enough to kill 1.425 million people: UCB officials in Memphis, TN seized the shipment that was headed to a Houston, TX residence. The shipment had originated in Mexico shipped in boxes labeled “woodcrafts art.”
- CBP Officers Seize $182,000 in Fentanyl during routine traffic stop: The seizure took place at the Brownsville, TX Port of Entry when a man applied for entry into the US. Officers found 13.44 pounds of Fentanyl hidden in the car.
These stories are only a few out of thousands. Clearly, Fentanyl is big business for some people, and they’re making tons of money. But, while they’re counting their fortune, hundreds of people are dying from those dangerous substances.
Why is Fentanyl So Deadly?
Fentanyl is a potent painkiller that is 80 to 100 times more potent than morphine. It is also 30 to 50 times more potent than heroin. Another reason Fentanyl is so deadly is that people who buy illicit cocaine, heroin, or meth don’t know it is laced with Fentanyl.
The effects of Fentanyl are very intense, but they don’t last long. With each use, the person increases their tolerance, needing larger doses to get the desired euphoric effects. The increased use can cause fatal overdoses. In fact, only two milligrams of the drug can be lethal.
Even small doses of Fentanyl can cause a person to stop breathing. Overdose effects can include:
- Cold, clammy skin
- Dilated pupils
- Cyanosis (blue colored skin and nails)
- Stupor
- Coma
- Respiratory failure
- Death
Synthetic opioids, including Fentanyl, are the primary cause of increased overdose deaths in the US. This fact alone confirms the dangers of Fentanyl.
Can a Person Overcome Fentanyl Addiction?
As with other addictions, there is no quick fix for Fentanyl addiction. The best approach for overcoming Fentanyl is with a long-term, inpatient program. This is especially true for those who struggle with Fentanyl or other opioid addictions. Addiction specialists agree that the longer a person remains in treatment, the chance of lasting recovery increases.
At Cycles of Change Recovery in Palmdale, CA, we offer a comprehensive inpatient program that begins with medically supervised detox. The next phase of our treatment program involves helping patients understand what led to their addiction and develop new habits and behaviors to resist going down that path again.
With the right combination of counseling, education, skills training, and aftercare, our patients can reenter society with confidence and a renewed sense of purpose. If you’re ready to leave addiction behind, contact us now to learn more about our program. The dangers of Fentanyl are real, so don’t wait too long to seek treatment.
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The stigma surrounding mental health and substance abuse has prevented many people from getting the help they need. When family, friends, or society have negative perceptions about mental health or drug use, their beliefs are often based on preconceptions, generalizations, or assumptions. These preconceived, often unfounded, perceptions are hard to change.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO),
“Stigma is a set of negative beliefs that a group or society holds about a topic or group of people.”
“Stigma is a major cause of discrimination and exclusion and it contributes to the abuse of human rights.”
Perceived stigma can result in avoidance, rejection, prejudice, or discrimination against a person. As a result, it can harm a person’s self-esteem and prevent them from seeking treatment.
How Stigma Impedes Addiction Treatment
Substance abuse and addiction are often underdiagnosed and under-treated because of stigma. Unfortunately, many people who use drugs or have mental health issues are often flagged as “drug-seekers” when they seek medical help. As a result, they avoid emergency rooms or clinics. Therefore, they don’t get a proper medical assessment or referral for the treatment that they need. In many instances, fatal overdose is the outcome.
Public stigma and personal shame are formidable obstacles to addiction treatment. Here are a few ways stigma interferes with a person’s ability to get the treatment they desperately need:
- Think they must hit “rock-bottom” before they need treatment.
- Fear losing their job if they enter a treatment program.
- Afraid of being seen as “weak” if they enter rehab.
- Unsure of being able to rejoin society after treatment.
Someone with co-occurring mental health issues and substance abuse often feels rejected by society. So, they isolate themselves and try to hide their drug use to avoid stigma and shaming. Over time, their substance use and mental health disorders get worse.
If we, as a society, can accept and treat these disorders as valid medical conditions, many lives can be saved.
Importance of Dual-Diagnosis Treatment
It’s difficult to determine which came first, the mental illness or the substance abuse issue. In most cases, a person struggles with both disorders concurrently. Someone with mental health problems often uses drugs as a form of self-medication and may develop an addiction to the substance. On the other hand, a person with a prolonged substance abuse history may have mental or emotional problems due to the drug in their system.
When someone struggles with these co-occurring disorders, the best treatment option is a dual-diagnosis program. These programs are equipped to address both the physical and mental factors to ensure the most favorable outcome.
Cycles of Change Recovery offers a unique approach to treating co-occurring disorders. For instance, Biosound Therapy helps patients who have mental health and substance use issues. This therapy uses vibrational patterns that relax the nervous system to relieve symptoms of stress, anger, racing thoughts, fearfulness, and more. We also offer 12-step programs, meditation and yoga, family therapy, and psychodrama therapy as part of our comprehensive dual-diagnosis treatment.
Words Matter: Destigmatizing Substance Abuse and Mental Health Disorders
Words are powerful tools. They can evoke many feelings, beliefs, emotions, and fears. As such, researchers believe the stigma surrounding substance abuse or mental health disorders can be minimized or eliminated by using different terms. For instance, when referring to addiction or mental health the following guidelines are suggested:
| Stigmatizing Language |
Recommended Language |
| Addict |
A person with substance use disorder |
| Addicted to X |
Has an X use disorder |
| Addiction |
Substance use disorder (SUD) |
| Alcoholic |
A person suffering from alcohol addiction |
| Drug abuser |
A person who uses drugs |
| Reformed addict |
A person in recovery |
| Recreational drug user |
Someone who uses drugs for non-medical reasons |
| Mentally ill, psycho, insane |
Has a mental health challenge |
| Mental health patient |
Is receiving mental health services |
| Committed suicide |
Died by suicide |
The recommended language acknowledges the person before the condition. It reduces the negative connotations evoked by stigmatizing language.
Public perceptions are often swayed by words or images. With this in mind, correcting stereotypes and misconceptions is a big step toward helping people get effective treatment.
Other ways to contribute to reducing stigma include:
- showing respect to people who are affected by substance abuse and mental health
- learning more about addiction and mental health
- supporting resources for those who struggle with these disorders.
Rediscover the Joy of Being You with Cycles of Change Recovery
At Cycles of Change Recovery, we realize the complexities of addiction. We know that addiction involves a combination of factors such as depression, PTSD, low self-esteem, anxiety, environmental influences, and more. During your time in our facility, we will first address the physical aspect of addiction with our onsite detox program. Then, you’ll receive the highest level of therapy to address the emotional or mental aspects.
Contact us today at our Palmdale, California facility if you’re ready to rediscover the joy of healthy, drug-free living.
Sources:
The terms recovery and treatment are often used interchangeably. Although they are related concepts, they are not the same thing. If you’re wondering how long you’ll be in recovery, you must first understand what recovery encompasses.
Treatment is a part of recovery. But, recovery involves more than spending time in a rehab facility. If you’re struggling with substance abuse or addiction, it’s important to have realistic expectations about quitting. So, let’s explore the key differences between treatment and recovery processes.
Treatment is the first stage of recovery.
Addiction treatment programs often include detox, counseling, therapy, and aftercare. Depending on the person’s circumstances, treatment providers can offer inpatient or outpatient programs. The first step is detoxification. Many facilities offer onsite detox programs which are more convenient.
Contrary to what many people think, detox is not a cure for addiction. This process only addresses the physical aspect of addiction. The next step in treatment is to participate in a rehabilitation program that focuses on the emotional and mental aspects of the addiction. Why is this important? Because there are often underlying reasons why a person engages in substance abuse. The reasons can include elements such as environment, family history of drug use, physical or mental abuse, emotional issues, mental health problems, and more.
According to the American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM), addiction is:
“… a treatable, chronic medical disease involving complex interactions among brain circuits, genetics, the environment, and an individual’s life experiences. People with addiction use substances or engage in behaviors that become compulsive and often continue despite harmful consequences.”
Treatment programs must have a flexible, comprehensive curriculum that can adapt to each person’s unique situation to ensure long-term recovery. Depending on the substance involved and the duration of the addiction, treatment programs can last 30, 60, 90 days, or longer if needed. Most people need at least three months in treatment followed by an aftercare program for continued support and guidance.
Recovery Is an ongoing process of staying sober.
When people refer to themselves as “recovered’ they should instead refer to themselves as “in recovery.” The distinction is vital to the individual’s understanding of the process. Recovery cannot be determined by a specific length of time. It is an ongoing process that the individual must work at for a lifetime. Also, the experience is different for each person. So, recovery cannot be given specific parameters.
Being in recovery means applying the concepts and skills learned while in a treatment program. The classes, activities, and counseling help clients regain self-esteem, build confidence, and develop effective coping techniques. They learn to recognize and manage triggers that could lead to relapse. The goal is to help a person manage daily tasks or stress without the need for addictive substances. In other words, treatment provides a firm foundation for building a sober life.
So, how long will you be in recovery? The best way to look at it is that each day brings challenges and temptations. How you respond to those factors will determine whether you continue in recovery or suffer a relapse. But, never forget you are not alone in the experience. Millions of people are active in recovery today and enjoying the benefits of healthier, sober living.
What if I relapse while in recovery?
Relapse is not uncommon during recovery. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), 50 to 90 percent of recovering alcoholics relapse within the first four years after rehab. For recovering drug abusers, the relapse rates are approximately 40 to 60 percent. But, the way the person responds to relapse is the crucial factor. In most cases, a person who has a “slip” can get back on track by attending a self-help meeting. With a full relapse, additional time in rehab may be needed.
The differences between a “slip” and a full relapse are:
- A slip is a short-lived occurrence. The person may use the substance for a day and realize the risk they’ve taken. They then take steps to stop using before addiction takes hold again.
- A full relapse happens when the person returns to a pattern of substance use over a long period of weeks or months. They may isolate themselves and skip meetings due to shame or guilt about the relapse.
Relapse can be dangerous if the person uses the same amount of the substance they used before treatment. This happens because the body no longer has a tolerance for the substance. Fatal overdoses are a concern for people who relapse after treatment.
Treatment and Recovery at Cycles of Change Recovery
Remaining in recovery is a continuing process of trying different methods to cope with daily stressors. At Cycles of Change Recovery, we understand the challenges faced by our clients when they step back out into the world as sober individuals. Therefore, we provide a comprehensive treatment program customized for each client’s specific needs.
With the right combination of education, support, and compassion, we give our client’s the best chance for moving forward toward a purposeful, healthier lifestyle. If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, please contact our Palmdale, California facility today. We will be happy to discuss our treatment options and get you started on the next cycle of change in your life.
Sources:
- asam.org – Definition of Addiction
- ncbi.nlm.nih.gov – A Comparative Study of Factors Associated with Relapse in Alcohol Dependence and Opioid Dependence
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