Can you believe that over 104,000 American lives were lost to overdoses in the 12 months after September 2021?
There’s no denying that this country is facing an unprecedented drug addiction epidemic. Unfortunately, Alabama has not been immune to overdose deaths either. If we don’t act now, more and more people will lose their lives.
How serious is the issue? With this in-depth look, keep reading to learn more about the drug crisis in Alabama.
Opioid Drug Deaths in Alabama
One of the most rampant drugs in Alabama falls under the category of opioids. These drugs can often come from legal prescriptions because they provide pain relief and other medical benefits when taken in small doses. The dangers come when people abuse these drugs, and a prescription turns into a deadly addiction.
In recent years, there’s been a considerable increase in the number of overdose deaths due to opioids. Before this issue gets out of hand, we need stricter Alabama drug laws. The current rules aren’t working as effectively as they should.
Other drugs tarnishing our great state include heroin and a recent influx of tianeptine. This latter illegal drug is coming into our state as a so-called “supplement” that helps with anxiety, depression, and fatigue.
Rather than providing these benefits in someone’s life, tianeptine gets users high in a way that’s similar to heroin. It’s also quite addictive like that drug.
How to Fight Against the Drug Crisis
Aside from stricter drug laws in our state, another way to fight against drug addiction in Alabama is through faith-based initiatives. People find comfort in drugs due to a hole in their hearts where God should reside.
If we reach these people before they get to the point of overdose, we can save their lives and make our community stronger through faith at the same time. In addition to reaching out to people currently struggling with addiction, we must educate our children and ensure that their minds stay clear and pure.
The last thing we’d want is for these drugs to start pouring into our schools. The sooner we act, the sooner we can stop this widespread issue.
Are You Ready to Help Solve the Drug Crisis?
Now that you’ve learned more about the drug crisis in Alabama, you can do your part as a citizen to help solve the issues. Education is one of our greatest weapons. If you know of anyone with a drug addiction, it’s worth having an intervention as soon as possible.
If you’re an Alabamian of faith, you’re sure to enjoy the in-depth content published on our site regularly. From current events to legislative issues, our non-profit never wavers in its dedication to this great state.