January 18, 2019 (Friday)
Data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows that falls are the third leading cause of preventable deaths in the United States. In recent years I have fallen several times, but so far have not been injured. I broke my wrist in a fall but a faulty step stool was the cause. I have fallen at other times, however, seemingly without a reason so my doctors have all advised me to use a cane. If you see me using a cane, don’t think I’ve been injured, etc. It will be strictly for the purpose of safety.
We should all take note that Americans’ risk for dying from an opioid overdose is higher than their risk for dying in a car accident (according to the National Safety Council). An “opioid” is a compound resembling opium in addictive properties or physiological effects. It is a class of drugs that includes the illegal drug heroin, synthetic opioids such as fentanyl, and pain relievers available legally by prescription, such as oxycodone (OxyContin®), hydrocodone (Vicodin®), codeine, morphine, and many others. The National Institute on Drug Abuse seeks to provide scientific solutions to the national opioid overdose crisis, including improved treatment strategies for pain as well as opioid use disorders (OUDs). This new initiative, funded by Congress, brings new hope for people, families, and communities affected by this devastating crisis.
“When they first use a drug, people may perceive what seem to be positive effects. They also may believe they can control their use. But drugs can quickly take over a person’s life. Over time, if drug use continues, other pleasurable activities become less pleasurable, and the person has to take the drug just to feel “normal.” They have a hard time controlling their need to take drugs even though it causes many problems for themselves and their loved ones. Some people may start to feel the need to take more of a drug or take it more often, even in the early stages of their drug use. These are the telltale signs of an addiction (NIDA).”
This is really a “life and death” matter, and families need to be aware of the dangers. Your intervention may save the life of a loved one.
