Opioid Epidemic: How to Get Help for Drug Addiction

The opioid epidemic is a serious public health crisis in the United States. In 2017, more than 70,000 people died from drug overdoses, and opioids were the leading cause of those deaths.If you or someone you know is struggling with drug addiction, there is help available. The National Drug Helpline is a free, confidential resource that can provide you with information and resources about drug addiction treatment. You can call the helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357) or visit their website at https://www.drughelpline.org.There are many different types of drug addiction treatment programs available. The right program for you will depend on your individual needs and circumstances. Some of the most common types of drug addiction treatment programs include:* **Outpatient treatment:** This type of treatment is typically done on an outpatient basis, meaning that you will go to the treatment center during the day and return home at night. Outpatient treatment programs can provide you with individual therapy, group therapy, and medication-assisted treatment.* **Intensive outpatient treatment:** This type of treatment is more intensive than outpatient treatment, and it typically involves going to the treatment center for several hours each day, several days a week. Intensive outpatient treatment programs can provide you with individual therapy, group therapy, and medication-assisted treatment.* **Residential treatment:** This type of treatment involves living at a treatment center for a period of time, typically 30 to 90 days. Residential treatment programs provide you with around-the-clock care, including individual therapy, group therapy, and medication-assisted treatment.No matter what type of drug addiction treatment program you choose, it is important to find a program that is right for you and that you are comfortable with. If you are not sure what type of program is right for you, talk to your doctor or a mental health professional.Getting help for drug addiction is not easy, but it is possible. With the right treatment, you can overcome your addiction and live a healthy, happy life.Here are some additional resources that you may find helpful:* The National Institute on Drug Abuse: https://www.drugabuse.gov* The SAMHSA National Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357)* The American Society of Addiction Medicine: https://www.asam.org