Introduction
How many Americans lose their lives to drug overdoses each year? Over 80,000 individuals have lost their lives as a result of drug overdoses in 2021 (“Data overview,” n.d.). Furthermore, this statistic worsens and causes even more concern as it shows “an increase of nearly 15% from the 93,655 deaths estimated in 2020” (“U.S. overdose deaths in 2021 increased,” 2022, para. 1).
However, multiple studies show that this indicator is growing by an average of four percent annually, which still causes great concern for society and policymakers. Drug overdose deaths may have been easily prevented with excellent education, even though many deaths occur each year, some of which are preventable and some of which are not. Community and other stakeholders can assist families in remaining together and maintaining safe neighborhoods in the country.
Statistics and Demographics
Before starting to explore approaches that can provide an opportunity to reduce the number of overdose deaths, it is necessary to gain an understanding of what this problem is. Overdose is a case when a person takes a fatally high dose of a drug that prevents their body from functioning normally (Miller, 2023). Particular attention should be paid to the study of demographic and statistical indicators of this issue.
Research stated that “currently, 71% of preventable opioid deaths occur among those ages 25 to 54, and the number of deaths among individuals 55 and older is growing rapidly” (“Drug overdose,” n.d., para. 2). In addition, it is noted that men die more often from overdose narcotic substances; however, this indicator is gradually being equalized. Such an aspect as race does not have a strong influence on this issue since the percentage of deaths is at the same rate for all groups of people. Therefore, these statistical and demographic data show the seriousness of the problem and the need to find a solution.
History of the Problem
When finding ways to solve the problem of increasing overdose deaths, it is valuable to pay attention to the history of its development since drug overdose claims thousands of lives in the United States each year. This process will provide an opportunity to determine the main factors of influence and impact on individuals. The first wave of this problem began in the 1990s with the growth of the prescribing of opioids, which then turned into a narcotic epidemic, including an active increase in heroin use in the 2010s (“Understanding the opioid overdose epidemic,” n.d.). Additionally, it is shown that approximately four percent more people die each year from drug overdose. This information shows disappointing statistics regarding the increase in annual mortality rates, and data continues to discuss the issue.
Main Causes
A variety of things can cause such a problem as an overdose of narcotic substances. This aspect is divided by the type of impact on the individual environment and genetics. The first implies indicators such as family beliefs and attitudes and peer or group pressure (“Drug addiction (substance use disorder) – Symptoms and causes,” 2022). These aspects can affect people by imposing a wrong opinion about drugs or providing a negative behavior model as preferred. On the other hand, genetic causes imply more significant unique traits that contribute to the development of the disease. Thus, addiction in the family, peer pressure, early use, low family participation, and highly addictive substance use are the main reasons for the development of addiction. Knowledge of the main factors that contribute to the development of the problem under discussion will contribute to the most effective process of finding ways to solve the issue.
Effects of Drug Use
The next important step is to investigate the main effects that drug overdose causes, as it can extend beyond the person with an addiction to include friends, family, and communities. One of the central and most obvious consequences is a significant deterioration in the physical and mental state of individuals. This aspect implies the development of various health abnormalities and the development of disorders such as anxiety, depression, or schizophrenia (“Drug addiction (substance use disorder) – Symptoms and causes,” 2022).
In addition, the use of narcotic substances leads to a loss of social status and financial position since individuals often spend all their money on a new dose. Therefore, to develop the most productive approach to help individuals, it is necessary to take into account that drug addiction affects the physical, psychological, and financial facets of life. The problem under study can have fatal consequences and long-lasting effects, significantly worsening and reducing the quality of life in society.
Proposed Solution
Before proceeding to the solutions section, it is necessary to take into account that many attempts have been made in the past to curb drug abuse. Still, the majority of them did not reach the younger generation. This aspect is because it should have a more preventive character and begin with introducing interventions for a younger population. One of the programs that was created to limit the problem was the DARE program. Its main drawback was using policies to deliver curriculum rather than addiction treatment specialists, which led to its failure (“Why did the DARE program fail?” 2021).
Thus, to solve the problem under study, it is necessary to introduce initiatives that will focus on educational, preventive measures for young people with the involvement of specialists in this field and the community. Introducing initiatives within National Awareness Week’s framework to expand individuals’ knowledge can also be beneficial (Division, 2023). Solutions for limiting drug overdose deaths should focus on the rise of awareness and include and inform America’s youth about the problem.
Solution Implementation
The best method to change the world is via education, which would also help with the drug misuse issue that America is currently dealing with. Research indicated that “this is a complex issue requiring partnership from many sectors and is an effort that needs to be supported through funding and resources to be successful” (“Overdose epidemic,” n.d., para. 2). Henceforth, it is necessary to increase public knowledge by raising exposure to the topic and awareness month and provide education to the impoverished communities. Supporting them when necessary and providing resources to improve these indicators is of critical value for improving the quality of life of society and reducing deaths from drug overdoses. When implementing solutions for the problem under discussion, it is necessary to involve various stakeholders and emphasize the development of preventive and awareness initiatives.
Conclusion
While some fatalities are unavoidable, such issues as overdose deaths from drugs can be avoided through different measures. Educating and instructing America’s youth on the negative impacts of drug usage and how it can alter a person’s environment, finances, and health is one of the most effective and promising ones. Even though several attempts in the past to eliminate the dilemma failed, they provided an understanding of which aspects are of specific value. Most were ineffective because they were more concerned with instilling fear than teaching. Of particular importance in solving the problem of drug overdose and death from it is the cohesion of society and the involvement of as many stakeholders as possible. Developing community-based interventions and expanding educational and preventive measures for the next generation will be most effective.
References
Data overview. (n.d.). Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Web.
Division, D. C. (2023). Prevention programs & tools. HHS.gov. Web.
Drug addiction (substance use disorder) – Symptoms and causes. (2022). Mayo Clinic. Web.
Drug overdoses. (n.d.). National Safety Council. Web.
Miller, L. (2023). Drug overdose symptoms, risks & treatment. American Addiction Centers. Web.
Overdose epidemic (n.d.). NCDHHS. Web.
U.S. overdose deaths in 2021 increased half as much as in 2020 – but are still up 15%. (2022). Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Web.
Understanding the opioid overdose epidemic. (n.d.). Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Web.
Why did the DARE program fail? (2021). Banyan Treatment Center. Web.