Leading drug that causes opioid addiction and overdose in America.

1) Discuss the leading drug that causes opioid addiction and overdose in America.

2) Discuss your perspective on how COVID-19 contributed to the opioid crises in the U.S. Conclude with three recommendations that support restructuring mental healthcare policy for substance abuse agencies and clinicians.

find the cost of your paper

Sample Answer

 

 

  1. The leading drug causing opioid addiction and overdose in America is synthetic opioids other than methadone, primarily fentanyl.

While prescription opioids like oxycodone were a significant contributor in the early 2000s, illicitly manufactured fentanyl and fentanyl analogues have become the main driver of overdose deaths in recent years. These synthetic opioids are significantly more potent than heroin and prescription drugs, making them even more dangerous.

  1. The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly exacerbated the opioid crisis in the U.S. Here’s how:
  • Social Isolation and Disruption of Support Systems: Lockdowns and social distancing measures increased feelings of isolation and loneliness, which are risk factors for substance abuse. Support groups and treatment programs faced disruptions, making it harder for people in recovery to access help.

Full Answer Section

 

 

 

  • Economic Strain:Job losses and financial hardship due to the pandemic caused stress and anxiety, leading some to turn to opioids to cope.
  • Increased Availability of Illicit Drugs:Border closures and disruptions in the supply chain may have impacted the availability of some drugs, leading users to seek out more potent and dangerous alternatives like fentanyl.
  • Overwhelmed Healthcare System:The pandemic strained healthcare resources, making it harder for people with substance use disorders to access treatment or medication-assisted therapy (MAT).

Recommendations for Restructuring Mental Healthcare Policy:

  1. Increase Telehealth Access:Expand access to telehealth services for mental health and addiction treatment, especially in rural areas or for those hesitant to seek in-person care.
  2. Integrate Substance Abuse Treatment into Primary Care:Train primary care physicians to screen for and treat substance use disorders, reducing the stigma associated with seeking help.
  3. Expand Funding for Harm Reduction Programs:Increase funding for programs that provide clean needles, naloxone (an overdose reversal medication), and other harm reduction strategies to prevent overdose deaths.

By implementing these recommendations, policymakers can help restructure mental healthcare to better address the opioid crisis and provide more accessible and comprehensive support for those struggling with addiction.

 

This question has been answered.

Get Answer