The opioid crisis has severely impacted the United States since it began in the 1990s. Several states have put programs into place to help educate and protect their citizens. Texas is one of these states, publishing information daily about opioid statistics and treatment information. Individuals that use opioids in Texas may be unaware of the numbers in their state alone. By learning more about the opioid crisis in Texas, those struggling can get the help they need for life-long recovery.
The Statistics
The Texas Attorney General has set up a website to give citizens information regarding statistics, treatment, and other helpful resources to help fight against the opioid crisis. The statistics uploaded are updated regularly to ensure the most recent data is available. According to this website, there were 1,375 opioid-related deaths in Texas. In the same year, there were 42,249 deaths nationwide. According to the National Institutes on Drug Abuse (NIDA), there were 4.8 opioid-involved overdose deaths per 100,000 people in 2018.
Actions Taken in Texas
The State Government of Texas has taken several initiatives to fight against the opioid crisis. In September 2017, the Attorney General “and a bipartisan coalition of 40 other states served investigative subpoenas and additional requests on eight companies that manufacture or distribute highly addictive painkillers.” In May 2018, the state of Texas filed a lawsuit against Purdue Pharma regarding deceptive practices and misrepresentations of risks. Most recently, in February 2021, the state reached a $38.4 million settlement with McKinsey, a consulting firm that worked with various opioid manufacturers.
Further Steps in Texas for Protection
The Texas Attorney General’s site has statistics regarding the opioid crisis and resources available to connect individuals to treatment facilities. You can visit the site to learn how to dispose of prescription opioids, get connected to a treatment center, and what to do in case of an overdose.
The opioid crisis has affected the United States on a national scale since the 1990s. States like Texas have enacted resourceful websites to connect individuals to accurate information and helpful resources. At Alta Loma Transformational Services, we deeply care about Texans and their safety. We provide addiction and mental health services to men and their families to promote healthy lives. Through genuinely individualized programs and expert staff, you are sure to find recovery with Alta Loma. To learn more about our dynamic programs based in Georgetown, TX, call us today at (866) 457-3843.
