Glenwood, Arkansas is a small town located in Pike County, with a population of approximately 2,200 people. Despite its small size, the town has been greatly affected by the opioid epidemic, and in particular, the rise of heroin addiction. As such, there is a growing need for effective heroin addiction treatment in Glenwood and the surrounding area.
The Need for Heroin Addiction Treatment in Glenwood
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), Arkansas has one of the highest rates of opioid prescribing in the country, with 114 prescriptions written for every 100 residents in 2017. This has contributed to the rise of opioid abuse, including heroin use, in the state.
Additionally, Pike County, where Glenwood is located, has been significantly impacted by the opioid epidemic. According to the Arkansas Department of Health, Pike County had the highest rate of prescription opioid deaths in the state in 2016, with a rate of 27.3 deaths per 100,000 people. This is almost three times the state average of 10.8 deaths per 100,000 people.
In addition to prescription opioid abuse, the use of heroin has also been on the rise in Glenwood and Pike County. In 2016, there were 22 heroin-related deaths in Arkansas, with 10 of those deaths occurring in counties surrounding Pike County.
Effective Treatment Options for Heroin Addiction
There are several effective treatment options for heroin addiction in Glenwood and the surrounding area. These include:
1. Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)
Medication-assisted treatment combines medication with counseling and behavioral therapy to treat heroin addiction. Medications, such as buprenorphine or methadone, can help reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms, while counseling and behavioral therapy can address the root causes of addiction and help individuals develop coping skills to prevent relapse.
In 2019, the state of Arkansas passed legislation allowing pharmacists to dispense naloxone, a medication used to reverse opioid overdoses, without a prescription. This has increased access to life-saving medication for those struggling with opioid addiction.
2. Outpatient Programs
Outpatient programs offer flexible treatment options for individuals in Glenwood who are unable to attend a residential program or who have completed a residential program and are seeking ongoing support. These programs typically involve regular therapy sessions, support groups, and medication management, if needed.
3. Residential Treatment Programs
Residential treatment programs provide 24-hour care and support for individuals struggling with heroin addiction. These programs often include detoxification, individual and group therapy, educational sessions, and aftercare planning. Residential treatment can be an effective option for those with severe addictions or who have not had success with other forms of treatment.
4. Support Groups
Support groups, such as Narcotics Anonymous, provide a sense of community and support for individuals in recovery from heroin addiction. These groups offer a safe space to share experiences, struggles, and successes, and can be a valuable tool in maintaining sobriety.
Facts and Statistics about Heroin Addiction in Glenwood and Arkansas
- In 2019, there were 114 opioid-related overdose deaths in Arkansas.
- In 2020, Arkansas received a $2 million grant from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) to support opioid overdose prevention efforts.
- In 2018, 483,000 people in the United States reported using heroin in the past year, with the highest prevalence among adults aged 26 or older.
- According to NIDA, treatment for opioid use disorder in 2019 was lower in the South region of the United States (including Arkansas) compared to other regions.
- In 2019, NIDA reported that there were 288 certified physicians able to provide buprenorphine treatment for opioid use disorder in Arkansas.
Conclusion
Heroin addiction is a significant problem in Glenwood, Arkansas, and the surrounding area. However, there are effective treatment options available to help individuals struggling with this addiction. Through a combination of medication-assisted treatment, residential or outpatient programs, and support groups, individuals in Glenwood can find the support and resources they need to overcome heroin addiction. With increased awareness and access to treatment, we can work towards reducing the impact of the opioid epidemic in Arkansas.