Families Torn Apart by Fentanyl
In Augusta, Georgia, the impact of fentanyl is felt in nearly every household, with families grappling with the devastating consequences of addiction. As the opioid crisis deepens, researchers and addiction specialists are stepping up to address this urgent public health issue. The narrative around fentanyl is not just about statistics; it’s about real lives and the struggle to reclaim them.
A Peer Support Specialist’s Journey
Jordan Lewis, a peer support specialist at the Aiken Center, embodies the transformation that recovery can bring. “I love my job,” Lewis shares, emphasizing the purpose and meaning it provides him. Once trapped in the grips of addiction, he understands firsthand the challenges many face. “I needed more to cope with how bad my life was, which made it bad,” he recalls, reflecting on the cycle of dependence that once consumed him.
Five Years of Sobriety and a New Mission
Now five years sober, Lewis has dedicated his life to helping others break free from the chains of addiction. Yet, he warns that the current drug landscape is more perilous than ever. “This is the most dangerous time in America to just experiment with drugs,” he cautions. With fentanyl being significantly stronger and more addictive than substances like heroin, the stakes are alarmingly high.
The Alarming Statistics Behind the Crisis
The statistics surrounding fentanyl use are staggering. Babek Baban, a researcher at Wellstar MCG Health, reports that between 200 to 300 individuals die each day from fentanyl overdoses. The urgency of the situation cannot be overstated. Since 2019, fentanyl overdose deaths in Georgia have skyrocketed by 308%, claiming over 1,600 lives in just one year. South Carolina is not far behind, with a 9% increase in fentanyl-related deaths reported in the last year alone.
Innovative Approaches to Treatment
In response to this crisis, researchers at Wellstar MCG Health are pioneering new treatment options for those struggling with fentanyl addiction. One promising avenue is CBD therapy, which has shown effectiveness in reducing anxiety—one of the primary triggers for relapse. Dr. Phillip Wang, a neuroscientist involved in the research, emphasizes the potential of CBD as an ancillary treatment, saying, “CBD has been shown to be very effective.” This innovative approach could offer hope for many seeking recovery.
A Community United Against Addiction
Jordan Lewis firmly believes that this new research could save countless lives. “The landscape of the drug community has changed dramatically,” he notes, highlighting the pervasive presence of fentanyl in various substances, particularly harder drugs. As the crisis escalates, the community’s response becomes increasingly vital. The fight against addiction is not just a medical battle; it’s a collective effort to reclaim lives and restore hope.
Time is of the Essence
The researchers and advocates in Augusta recognize the urgency of their mission. With fentanyl-related deaths on the rise, every day counts in the fight against this epidemic. The collaborative efforts of health professionals, researchers, and community members are crucial in addressing this growing threat. As they work tirelessly to implement new treatments and support systems, the hope is to turn the tide against fentanyl and help families heal.
A Call to Action
As the fentanyl crisis continues to affect families across the nation, awareness and action are more important than ever. Communities must come together to support those struggling with addiction and advocate for effective treatment options. The journey to recovery is challenging, but with dedicated efforts and innovative solutions, there is hope for a brighter future.