The opioid crisis is an epidemic that has been sweeping across the United States. We are currently in the midst of a national health emergency. In 2015 alone, drug overdoses killed more than 50,000 people. Research is showing that opioids are one of many contributing factors to this high number of deaths. The 2017 National Drug Threat Assessment found that there has been a significant increase in drug abuse and addiction to opioids, as well as other drugs such as cocaine and methamphetamine. We will discuss five must-read books about the epidemic so you can be informed about it and have a better understanding of how best to help those struggling with addiction.
The Opioid Epidemic
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there were 100,306 drug overdose deaths in the United States between April 2020 and April 2021, a 28.5% increase from the year prior. The rise in overdoses is mainly due to prescription pain relievers, heroin, and synthetic opioids such as fentanyl.
In the United States, fentanyl abuse has become a serious problem in recent years. So serious, that it is considered the main component in bringing about the third wave of the opioid epidemic that we are currently in. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), fentanyl was involved in 28,647 overdose deaths in 2017 alone. This is more than a five-fold increase from just three years prior when fentanyl was involved in just over 5000 overdose deaths.
Fentanyl is oftentimes used as a cheaper and more potent alternative to heroin. It is also sometimes used to cut other drugs, like cocaine, in order to increase their potency. However, because fentanyl is so powerful, even a small amount can be deadly.
5 Must-Read Books About Opioid Addiction
1. “The Opioid Diaries” by David J. Herzog, M.D.
This book is a raw and honest account of the author’s struggles with addiction to opioids over the course of his life. Throughout his journey, Dr. Herzog shares what he learned about the disease, how it affects those around him, and how he ultimately found recovery through acceptance and mindfulness meditation practices.
2. “The Hidden Epidemic” by Kathryn Boor
This is a discussion-based book that provides an in-depth look at why opioid addiction has become so widespread and what we can do to prevent the epidemic from growing even further. The author tackles the stigma surrounding this issue, as well as some of the misconceptions that exist around it. She also discusses the effects of opioids on individuals and society as a whole, including how they affect families, friends, children, and employers on both sides of the equation.
3. “A Higher Power: My Journey from Addiction to Faith” by David Oltman
This book takes you inside one addict’s journey to faith after years of addiction and helps you see how other addicts may feel in their own journeys with faith as well as get some insight into what comes next for them in their lives after addiction treatment or recovery work is complete.
4. “In the Realm of Hungry Ghosts: Close Encounters with Addiction” by Gabor Maté.
This book is a personal and professional account of Dr. Maté’s work with people who are struggling with addiction. He provides insight into the root causes of addiction and discusses different treatment options. This book is a great resource for anyone who wants to understand addiction and its impact on the individual and society.
5.”Opium: A History” by Martin Booth.
This book traces the history of opium from its origins in China to its use in the modern world. It provides a detailed account of the impact of opium on individuals, families, and societies. This book is a great resource for anyone who wants to understand addiction and its impact on the world.
We are Here for You
Opioid addiction is a national health emergency. The opioid epidemic has seen an escalation in overdose deaths, as well as a major shift in government-led efforts and public awareness. If you or someone close to you is struggling with opioid addiction, it is important to read up on the subject and learn about new information. This article provides five must-read books that offer insights into the opioid epidemic and what individuals can do to combat it.
If you or someone you love has overcome an addiction to heroin, it is important not to let your life fall apart. Heroin is highly addictive and life-threatening when abused; therefore, it is extremely important to seek help immediately if you or a loved one is struggling with this addiction. At Asheville Recovery Center treatment specialists utilize a 12-step program and practice holistic rehabilitation.
Services at the center include:
Partial Hospitalization Program – At Asheville Recovery Center we offer a partial hospitalization program for clients who need post-residential treatment as well as for clients who need primary treatment but are unable to enroll in inpatient programs. Our PHP track offers a variety of therapeutic services and benefits to individuals in early recovery from substance addiction.
Outpatient Rehabilitation – During intensive outpatient treatment (IOP), clients live at home or in a sober living residence while completing an addiction treatment program. IOP is a place where clients can process their experiences in twelve-step fellowships and support one another in those individual journeys. Addiction is difficult to overcome alone. If you feel that you or a loved one is struggling with heroin abuse, our specialists are on standby and ready to help. Call and speak with an addiction expert today.
