Heroin Addiction Treatment in Berkeley

According to a report by the Berkeley Health Department, heroin addiction has been on the rise in Berkeley and throughout California. Heroin is a highly addictive opioid drug that has devastating effects on individuals, families, and communities. In Berkeley, there are numerous treatment options available for those struggling with heroin addiction, including residential and outpatient programs, medication-assisted treatment, and counseling.

Here are some key statistics and facts about heroin addiction treatment in Berkeley and California:

1. Increase in Heroin Overdose Deaths:

In Berkeley, the number of heroin overdose deaths has increased by 56% from 2015 to 2019, according to the California Department of Public Health (CDPH). In 2019, there were 24 heroin overdose deaths in Berkeley, compared to 15 deaths in 2015.

2. Opioid Treatment Program (OTP) Admissions:

The CDPH also reported that there were 57 admissions to OTPs in Berkeley in 2019 for heroin addiction treatment. This is an increase from 45 admissions in 2015.

3. Opioid Prescriptions in California:

California has one of the highest rates of opioid prescriptions in the country, with over 27 million prescriptions in 2018 according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This high availability of prescription opioids has contributed to the rise in heroin addiction.

4. Co-Occurring Mental Health Disorders:

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) reports that in California, 48% of individuals seeking treatment for heroin addiction also have a co-occurring mental health disorder. This highlights the importance of addressing both the addiction and any underlying mental health issues in treatment.

5. Lack of Access to Treatment:

There is a significant shortage of treatment facilities and resources in California, making it difficult for individuals to access proper care for heroin addiction. According to SAMHSA, only 11% of Californians in need of substance abuse treatment actually receive it.

6. Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT):

MAT is an evidence-based approach to treating heroin addiction that combines medication with counseling and behavioral therapy. The CDPH reported that there were 37 MAT programs in California in 2018, serving 39,153 patients.

7. Overdose Reversal Drug:

Naloxone, a medication used to reverse opioid overdoses, is available without a prescription in California and has been credited with saving countless lives. In 2019, Berkeley introduced a citywide program called "Naloxone Everywhere", which made naloxone available in public locations such as libraries and community centers.

In conclusion, heroin addiction treatment in Berkeley and California faces many challenges, including the increased availability of prescription opioids and a shortage of treatment resources. However, with the implementation of programs like MAT and "Naloxone Everywhere", there is hope for reducing the devastating effects of heroin addiction on individuals and communities. Amplifying awareness of the often overlooked dangers of heroin addiction and advocating for expanded access to treatment will be key in addressing this issue in Berkeley and throughout California.