Prescription Drug Abuse Programs in Columbus

Prescription drug abuse is a growing problem in Columbus, Ohio, and across the state of Ohio. According to a report from the Ohio Department of Health, there were 4,854 overdose deaths involving prescription drugs in the state of Ohio in 2017, representing a rate of 43.8 deaths per 100,000 population. This is higher than the national average, which was 21.7 deaths per 100,000 population in the same year.

In Columbus specifically, there were 142 overdose deaths involving prescription drugs in 2017, representing a rate of 16.1 deaths per 100,000 population. While this is lower than the state average, it still highlights the significant impact of prescription drug abuse in the city.

There are a number of prescription drug abuse programs in Columbus that aim to address this issue and provide treatment and support for individuals struggling with addiction. The following are some of the notable programs and resources available in the city:

1. The Ohio Substance Abuse Monitoring Network (OSAM) – This program, run by the Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, collects data from a variety of sources to monitor drug trends and inform prevention efforts. They also provide information and resources for individuals seeking treatment for prescription drug abuse in Columbus.

2. Maryhaven – Located in Columbus, Maryhaven is a behavioral healthcare provider that offers a number of addiction treatment programs, including programs specifically for those struggling with prescription drug abuse. They provide both outpatient and inpatient services, as well as medication-assisted treatment.

3. OhioHealth O'Bleness Hospital – Located in nearby Athens, Ohio, the O'Bleness Hospital offers a comprehensive addiction treatment program for individuals struggling with prescription drug abuse. This program includes medication-assisted treatment, individual and group therapy, and a focus on relapse prevention.

4. Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center – This academic medical center offers a range of addiction treatment programs, including those specifically focused on prescription drug abuse. They offer both outpatient and inpatient services, as well as individual and group therapy, and medication-assisted treatment.

5. Naloxone Distribution Programs – In response to the opioid epidemic, there are several organizations in Columbus that provide naloxone, a medication used to reverse opioid overdoses, free of charge. These include Naloxone for Columbus and Project DAWN (Deaths Avoided With Naloxone), which provides training on how to administer naloxone and distributes the medication to those in need.

In addition to these programs, there are several support groups and resources available in Columbus for individuals struggling with prescription drug abuse, including Narcotics Anonymous and SMART Recovery meetings.

In order to address the growing problem of prescription drug abuse, the state of Ohio has also implemented a number of initiatives and policies. These include increasing access to medication-assisted treatment, developing guidelines for prescribing opioids, and creating a prescription drug monitoring program to help identify and prevent prescription drug abuse.

Overall, there are a variety of resources and programs available in Columbus, Ohio to address prescription drug abuse and support those struggling with addiction. However, there is still much work to be done to reduce the impact of this issue on the city and the state. Ongoing efforts and support from both government and community organizations will be crucial in addressing and preventing prescription drug abuse in Columbus.