Prescription Drug Abuse Programs in Knoxville

Prescription drug abuse is a growing problem in Knoxville, Tennessee, as well as the rest of the state. The high availability of prescription drugs, combined with a lack of awareness about their potential for addiction, has led to a significant increase in abuse and overdose deaths.

According to the Tennessee Department of Health, in 2018, there were 1,818 overdose deaths in the state, with more than half involving prescription opioids. In Knox County, there were 167 overdose deaths, with 87% involving opioids. This number has been steadily increasing over the years, highlighting the urgent need for effective prescription drug abuse programs in the area.

One of the primary resources for addressing prescription drug abuse in Knoxville is the Knox County Health Department. The department offers a range of services and resources, including education, prevention, and treatment programs for individuals struggling with prescription drug abuse. These programs include:

1. Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) Programs
MAT programs combine medication and behavioral therapy to treat opioid addiction. The Knox County Health Department offers methadone and buprenorphine treatment, which helps reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms, allowing individuals to focus on their recovery.

2. Outpatient Treatment Programs
The health department also offers outpatient treatment programs that include individual and group therapy, as well as medication management for individuals with a prescription drug addiction. These programs provide ongoing support and counseling to help individuals maintain their sobriety.

3. Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)
For individuals who require more structured treatment, the health department offers an intensive outpatient program. This program involves attending therapy and educational sessions several times a week, while still allowing participants to live at home and maintain their daily responsibilities.

In addition to the programs offered by the health department, there are also private addiction treatment centers and rehab facilities in Knoxville, specifically catering to prescription drug abuse. Some of these include Cumberland Heights, Tennessee Wellness Center, and Cornerstone of Recovery.

Furthermore, the Knoxville community has also taken steps to address the issue of prescription drug abuse. Several organizations, such as the Knoxville Prescription Drug Task Force and Knoxville/Knox County Opioid Substance Abuse Task Force, have been formed to address the problem and raise awareness.

These organizations work to educate the community about the dangers of prescription drug abuse and provide resources and support for those struggling with addiction. They also work to implement policies and strategies to reduce the availability of prescription drugs and decrease the number of overdose deaths.

In order to provide evidence-based treatment, most prescription drug abuse programs in Knoxville follow the guidelines set by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA). These guidelines include using a multidisciplinary approach that addresses both the physical and psychological aspects of addiction, as well as providing ongoing support and follow-up care to prevent relapse.

In conclusion, prescription drug abuse is a serious problem in Knoxville and throughout the state of Tennessee. However, there are various resources and programs available to help individuals overcome their addiction and lead a healthier, drug-free life. It is important for individuals struggling with prescription drug abuse to seek out these programs and resources and for the community to continue to raise awareness and support for those affected by this issue.