Prescription Drug Abuse Programs in Baltimore

Prescription drug abuse is a growing problem in Baltimore and throughout the state of Maryland. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), in 2016, there were over 1,500 drug overdose deaths in Maryland, with the majority of these being attributed to prescription opioids. In Baltimore alone, there were 694 overdose deaths, a rate of 55.8 per 100,000 people, which was higher than the state average of 30.2 per 100,000 people.

Rehab Programs in Baltimore:

1. Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center Addiction Treatment Services: This program offers both inpatient and outpatient treatment for substance abuse, including prescription drug abuse. They utilize evidence-based therapies such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and medication-assisted treatment (MAT) to help individuals overcome their addiction.

2. Baltimore Substance Abuse Systems: This program provides a comprehensive range of services for individuals struggling with substance abuse, including prescription drug abuse. They offer detoxification, outpatient treatment, and residential treatment services, with a focus on helping individuals regain their sobriety and rebuild their lives.

3. Maryland Recovery: Located in Baltimore, this rehab center offers a variety of treatment options for prescription drug abuse, including detoxification, residential treatment, and intensive outpatient programs. They also offer individual and group therapy, as well as family therapy, to address the underlying issues contributing to an individual's addiction.

Disorders and Facts:

1. Opioid Use Disorder: This is a condition in which a person becomes addicted to opioid drugs, including prescription painkillers such as oxycodone, hydrocodone, and fentanyl. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), in 2016, there were approximately 173,000 individuals in Maryland who were diagnosed with opioid use disorder, with 87.9% of them receiving no treatment.

2. Co-Occurring Disorders: Many individuals who struggle with prescription drug abuse also have a co-occurring mental health disorder such as depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder. In Maryland, 29.7% of individuals receiving treatment for substance abuse also had a co-occurring mental health disorder.

3. Access to Treatment: Despite the high rates of prescription drug abuse in Baltimore and Maryland, there are only a limited number of treatment facilities available to those in need. According to the National Survey of Substance Abuse Treatment Services (N-SSATS), there were only 181 substance abuse treatment centers in Maryland in 2019.

4. Overdose Prevention: In response to the growing opioid epidemic, Baltimore and Maryland have implemented measures to prevent and respond to drug overdoses. These include the distribution of naloxone, an opioid overdose reversal medication, to first responders and training programs for laypeople to administer it.

5. Recovery Support: Programs such as Narcotics Anonymous (NA) and SMART Recovery offer support and resources for individuals in recovery from prescription drug abuse in Baltimore and Maryland. These programs use a peer-based approach to provide ongoing support and help people maintain their sobriety.

In conclusion, prescription drug abuse is a serious problem in Baltimore and Maryland, affecting individuals from all walks of life. With the availability of comprehensive treatment programs and support services, individuals struggling with prescription drug abuse can overcome their addiction and begin the journey toward a healthier and more fulfilling life.