Recovering From the Devastating Effects of the Opioid Crisis
September is National Recovery Month, a time dedicated to increasing awareness and understanding of mental health and substance use disorders as well as celebrating people in recovery. During this month, we would like to shine a spotlight on an issue that has devastated communities all across the country.
On average, 130 Americans die every day from an opioid drug overdose. The opioid crisis has ravaged communities all across the country. In 2017, an estimated 1.7 million people in the United States suffered from substance use disorders related to prescription opioid pain relievers.
More than 36,000 Pennsylvanians struggle with substance abuse disorders. In 2017, more than 5,400 people in Pennsylvania died from an opioid overdose. Of those, 461 were in Bucks County (ranked the 3rd highest of all PA counties) and 397 in Montgomery County (ranked the 4th highest of all PA counties). Of the 120 individuals evaluated each month by Penn Foundation, 95% are addicted to opioids.
“We are losing a generation,” says Julie Williams, MA, LPC, CCDP-D, Penn Foundation’s Director of Clinical Services. “Many of our clients began using drugs right out of high school and never learned how to live independently. Their addiction has inhibited their development, resulting in long-term health, economic, and social implications.”
Addiction shatters lives, but that does not have to always be the case. For 30 years, we have partnered with individuals and families to help break the devastating cycle of addiction. In 2016, Penn Foundation was named an Opioid Treatment Center of Excellence and in 2017, we were designated an Aetna Institute of Quality®., The recovery journey can be long and difficult, but no one has to face it alone. We are committed to providing high quality, innovative, evidence-based addiction medicine and prevention programs for our community. We offer a wide range of drug and alcohol services, including inpatient detoxification and rehabilitation, outpatient counseling, intensive outpatient counseling, and a partial hospital program. We also provide consultation to the family and loved ones of those struggling with addiction who are unsure of what to do.
During this National Recovery Month, we want to celebrate those recovering and reach a hand out to those in need. Our recovery services are always available, and our staff is ready and willing to help. Do not hesitate to reach out. If you or a loved one are struggling with addiction and are looking to start the recovery journey, contact us at 215-257-6551 or at rchelp@pennfoundation.org.