Drug Overdoses Skyrocket Due to Synthetic Opioids
Since March 2020, thousands of people have suffered from a shocking number of drug overdoses. Less access to treatment, mental health struggles, and the rising availability of lethal drugs has led to increased deaths due to drugs.
Numbers that have never been seen before have been seen during the past nearly two years. Synthetic opioids have gained popularity and lack of access to resources that could prevent drug addictions has led to people using them on a large scale. Here are some statistics that will help shed light on the extent of drug overdoses over time.
Drug Overdoses: The Current Scenario
From April 2020 to April 2021, more than 100,000 Americans have died of overdoses. It has been estimated to increase 38% from the preceding year, showing the extent of the issue.
Overdose deaths have overcome the total toll of car crash victims and gun fatalities combined. It has been noted that people struggling with addiction or are in recovery were most prone to succumbing to drug overdoses. An increase in mental health disorders like depression and anxiety due to the subsequent lockdowns has also led to more people using drugs.
How Has Synthetic Opioids Become The Drug of Choice?
Synthetic opioids have caused the vast majority of deaths. The widespread use of Fentanyl, a fast-acting drug known to be much stronger than morphine, is the main reason behind the rise of synthetic opioids.
Fentanyl is also added to a selection of other drugs to make a potent cocktail drug, leading to many drug overdoses across the country.
DOT Drug Rules and Regulations
When you are a DOT-mandated safety-sensitivity employee, staying away from drugs and alcohol is crucial. However, understandably, the pandemic has led to a change in lifestyle for many people, and dealing with it alone can leave some with no recourse.
Ensuring that you have a strong support network that helps you stay away from synthetic opioids and other harmful drugs is imperative, especially if you are a DOT-mandated, safety-sensitive employee. If you fail to pass a drug or alcohol test, you will be immediately removed from your duties as a safety-sensitive employee, will have to complete the return-to-duty process, and are required to see a Substance Abuse Professional who can help you through this difficult time.
Get Help Immediately With SRS
If you failed a drug and/or alcohol test, it’s best to give a call to SRS to ensure that you are scheduled with a qualified SAP in your area. Stay away from the threat of drug overdoses with the right precautionary steps. Take time to care for yourself and get the guidance you need from professionals who can help you through the process. Contact us today at 410-668-8110 to schedule your SAP appointment.