The Opioid Epidemic – What Comes Now?

Some experts have predicted a fourth wave, featuring fentanyl in combination with other addictive drugs, such as methamphetamine, cocaine, and benzodiazepine sedatives.

 You have to hand it to those folks in Oregon – when they don’t succeed, they keep right on trying.

And success has been elusive. Despite four years of sincere attempts to control the problem of rampant drug abuse, Oregon still faces “one of the highest US rates of substance use disorders,” while  “…[ranking] last for access to treatment.”

Nothing to boast about. Yet strangely enough, when we look below the surface, real progress has been made -- especially with the most challenging population: the very chronic, relapsing, “street" drug user.

Here’s a closer look:
How to help people with addictions on the streets? These Oregon Programs have solutions.
Some of the innovations discussed:

Increased efforts at outreach and followup

An example: A non-profit organization with the ability to bypass barriers for anyone willing to accept their help -- immediately, if mecessary. An example: “The couple had been talking for months about wanting to get...

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A Bad Test Result

I don’t know how often we question the findings, but it makes me think that a critical examination of our own procedures, say on a quarterly and yearly basis, might be a heck of a good idea.

A Bad Test Result

I don’t know how often we question the findings, but it makes me think that a critical examination of our own procedures, say on a quarterly and yearly basis, might be a heck of a good idea.

Detection Dilemma

Seems to me this is just another weakness in the plan to rely on border control and enforcement to stem the rise of synthetic drugs in the US.

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Life in a Hot Spot

Make it a continuing effort, using strategies based in evidence, and harnessing the power of human interaction-- instead of relying on a burst of anti-drug education, however intense.

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“It was never a problem”

That's important in a treatment context, because a history of multiple drug use means they will be tempted to focus on one substance --  their "drug of choice", whatever they may feel that is -- while minimizing the importance of the others.

“It was never a problem”

That's important in a treatment context, because a history of multiple drug use means they will be tempted to focus on one substance --  their "drug of choice", whatever they may feel that is -- while minimizing the importance of the others.

Exercising for Chronic Pain Relief

We've known for several decades that regular exercise, even the mild sort, helps lessen symptoms of depression. It comes as no surprise that it may also help with CPS and the mood problems that accompany it.

Drugs in Jail

If 70% or more of a jail population has been identified as having a drug or alcohol problem – that does happen – then what you’re really operating is a treatment center that happens to have bars on the windows and guards at the entrance.

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