Be Free from Opioid Painkiller Abuse at St. Louis Halfway Houses

Prescription opioid painkiller abuse is a serious public health concern in St. Louis, Missouri. While these medications are meant to manage pain, they are misused by some individuals and lead to dependence and addiction. Opioids include a diverse class of drugs, ranging from illicit substances like heroin and synthetic variants such as fentanyl to legally prescribed painkillers like oxycodone, hydrocodone, codeine, morphine, and many others.

Some people abuse prescription painkillers to get high. Opioids produce feelings of euphoria and relaxation, making them attractive for non-medical use. Another form of abuse involves exceeding prescribed dosages or durations. Taking more pills than prescribed, or using them for longer than recommended, can quickly lead to dependence on the medication.

Opioid overdose deaths are a significant issue. St. Louis County saw a decrease in 2022 (294 deaths) compared to 2021, but the rate is still high (31.9 deaths per 100,000 population). While prescription rates are lower than the national average, a significant portion of the St. Louis MSA population (15.4%) reports using illicit drugs in the past year, with some using prescription pain relievers non-medically.

There are halfway houses with programs specifically designed to help those struggling with opioid dependence. They can be a valuable component of a comprehensive treatment plan. The main goal of a halfway house in St. Louis is to provide a structured living environment for people reintegrating into independent life after inpatient treatment. If you or someone you know is struggling with opioid prescription painkillers, there are many treatment options available.

What is the substance abuse rate in Missouri?

Substance abuse, also known as drug abuse, refers to the harmful or hazardous use of psychoactive substances. These substances can include both legal and illegal drugs. Common examples of psychoactive substances involve alcohol, marijuana, nicotine, and other illicit drugs. When someone engages in substance abuse, they consume these substances in amounts or by methods that are detrimental to their own well-being or to others around them.

One of the most significant consequences of substance abuse is addiction. This chronic condition is characterized by compulsive drug seeking and use despite the negative effects it has on them. Substance abuse can also disrupt brain chemistry, leading to emotional instability, irritability, and mood swings. Depending on the substance, abuse can trigger paranoia, hallucinations, and other psychotic symptoms.

According to a 2009-2010 survey, around 7.7% of Missouri residents reported using illicit drugs in the past month. This was slightly lower when compared to the national average, wherein Missouri has a slightly lower rate of past-month illicit drug use (around 7.7%). However, the number of people with a substance use disorder is estimated to be around 379,000, including nearly 18,000 young people aged from 12 to 17. Approximately 28,444 are veterans, which constitutes nearly 6% of all veterans.

Do halfway houses allow prescriptions?

Yes, halfway houses do allow prescriptions, but there’s a process to follow. If you’re residing in a halfway house, you’ll need to get approval from the staff before bringing in any medications. These facilities are designed to provide a safe environment for recovering addicts and individuals in early recovery. While they offer support and structure, they don’t typically have medical or psychiatric staff on-site. So communicate with the staff regarding any necessary medications. 

This is just one of the many common rules and policies that halfway houses have. Others are mainly:

• Sobriety: This is the core rule. No drugs (some allow it due to prescriptions) or alcohol are allowed on the premises. Residents may be subject to random drug tests.
• Curfew: Residents typically have a curfew to ensure they return at a reasonable hour and maintain a structured routine. Most halfway houses have their curfew set at 10 PM.
• Recovery Programs: Participating in support groups or attending therapy sessions is usually mandatory.
• Chores and responsibilities: Contributing to chores fosters a sense of responsibility and teaches skills necessary for independent living.
• Respectful conduct: Violence, theft, and disruptive behavior are not tolerated. Residents are expected to treat each other with respect.
• Guest restrictions: Halfway houses limit visitors to promote a focused recovery environment. Overnight guests are usually not allowed.
• Financial responsibility: Residents share the cost of living in the halfway house.
• Designated time of stay: Some halfway houses specify a time of stay, usually ranging from 90 days to 1 year.

If you’re considering a halfway house, ask about their policies beforehand. This will help you understand what to expect and ensure you can continue taking any necessary medications during your stay.

What is the meaning of a halfway house approach?

A halfway house approach refers to the main focus of a halfway house and what they offer for individuals recovering from alcohol or drug abuse. A halfway house offers a unique approach to addiction recovery. It functions as a bridge between the more intensive structure of a treatment program and the independence of living on your own. This structured living environment provides support and supervision for people transitioning back into society after facing addiction.

Halfway houses emphasize maintaining sobriety. Residents live in a drug and alcohol-free environment, with random drug testing to ensure accountability. Recovery programs are a core element, with residents participating in group therapy, individual counseling, and support groups. These programs are useful tools to identify triggers, develop coping mechanisms, and build a strong network of sober support.

The benefits of going to halfway houses are significant. Compared to transitioning directly back to a potentially triggering home environment, the structured setting and ongoing support system can dramatically reduce the risk of relapse. Residents improve their skills, increasing their chances of long-term success. Additionally, halfway houses foster a sense of community and belonging with others facing similar challenges, creating a strong support network.

The appropriateness of the programs depend on the individual’s needs and the severity of their addiction. Living arrangements and rules can also vary between facilities. Finding a halfway house that aligns with your specific needs and recovery goals is one of the most important factors to consider before entering. 

Overcome the Challenges of Opioid Painkiller Abuse with St. Louis Halfway Houses

Prescription opioid painkillers, intended for pain relief, have become a significant source of addiction, not just in Missouri, but in the United States as a whole. People misuse these medications for various reasons, leading to dependence and severe health consequences.

Opioid-involved overdose deaths constituted the majority (73%) of overdose deaths in Missouri in 2021, making up a staggering 73% of all drug overdose deaths in the state, with 1,582 deaths, a 13% increase compared to 2020. This surge in opioid-related deaths reflects a broader epidemic of drug overdoses that has plagued Missouri over the past decade. In 2020, the state recorded a record high of 1,878 fatal drug overdoses, marking a 19% increase from the previous year, with 1,375 of these deaths being opioid-related. Synthetic opioids, including fentanyl, were involved in 1,204 drug overdose deaths in 2020, nearly seven times higher than the count in 2015.

Halfway houses, while not the initial step in treatment, can be a valuable asset in the recovery journey for those battling opioid dependence. These facilities provide a structured environment for individuals transitioning back to independent living after completing inpatient treatment. By working together, we can combat the opioid addiction crisis and support individuals on their path to recovery. Reach out to a halfway house in St. Louis today and start your journey toward stability and long-term recovery.

Resources:

[1] Substance-involved Deaths – St. Louis county Public Health

[2] Missouri Statewide Overdose Mortality – MIMH Addiction Science 

[3] Drug Overdose Fatality Data – St. Louis-MO Gov