Prior to current events, Ohio, the country and the world had other problems that needed attention and resolution. Unfortunately, other things took priority, so issues such as the opioid epidemic took a backseat. Now, as the months continue to pass, the number of overdoses from these drugs has increased anywhere from 30% to 40%, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse.
In addition to an increase in deaths, the number of people relapsing appears to have increased as well. Being isolated from friends, family and other support makes it more difficult to remain drug free. Another issue is the overcrowding of hospitals due to the current situation. This makes it harder for those in need of help and other medications to get the proper care.
Another problem is the entrance of synthetic opioids such as fentanyl into the drug world. These drugs seem to be contributing to the rise in overdoses in recent months. The health care industry is attempting to combat the issue by using the telehealth option, which has grown in popularity for obvious reasons. However, it could be some time before its effectiveness for substance abuse suffers is known.
Just because the opioid epidemic is no longer in the news as often as it used to be does not mean it has gone away. Sadly, the progress that was made prior to current events appears to have dwindled and even reversed. Pharmaceutical companies continue to make money at the expense of innocent people across the country, including many here in Ohio.
