Editor:
The United States has been in a world of hurt in 2020. COVID-19 has spread across the country, affecting businesses and families nationwide. To make matters worse, alcoholism and substance abuse, in general, have seen a steep increase since the quarantine order has taken effect. The virus has been the media’s main focus, so most people haven’t considered how rapidly addiction has grown in communities.
For instance, alcohol sales have spiked nearly 60 percent compared to the same time in 2019. Online alcohol sales shot up by 243 percent during the initial stay at home orders in March. Alcoholics weren’t the only ones affected by the pandemic either. Drug overdoses increased by about 11 percent in the first three months of 2020. The purity of drugs is also less absolute as narcotic supply chains faced issues from border shutdowns. This drop in the purity of products on the street made illicit drugs considerably more unpredictable, leading to an increased chance of fatal overdoses.
It can be easy to focus on the fear surrounding the virus itself, and most people don’t realize how substance abuse issues are developing or worsening during this pandemic. Three times as many people in the United States have a problem with substance abuse than have been exposed to the coronavirus. The gravity of this situation has not received the coverage it needs, so many do not know of the increased risk of overdose.
The only way to fight against this growing problem is by raising awareness. Families should reach out to loved ones who might be developing an issue with substance abuse and share the truth of the situation with their children starting at a young age.
For more information on the growing problem of substance abuse, visit: https://www.narcononnewliferetreat.org/blog/a-country-unraveled.html.
Narconon can help you take steps to overcome addiction in your family. Call today for free screenings or referrals. 1- 800-431-1754
Caleb Hughes, Narconon
Director of Public Relations