Like many diseases, addiction does not pick and choose its victims. It affects individuals from all walks of life, people who are loved and respected within their families, from parents to first responders to next-door neighbors. For those struggling with substance abuse, it’s often an isolating experience for them and the people who love them.
In a 12-month period ending in May 2020, there were more than 81,000 drug overdose deaths in the U.S., according to the CDC. It was the highest number of overdose fatalities ever recorded in a 12-month period. While the numbers were consistently revealing an upward trajectory before the pandemic, the unprecedented changes to daily life only accelerated the rise.
While statistics reflect a national problem, the addiction epidemic affects local communities and devastates everyday families. Those startling numbers also tell a story of how addiction affects individuals from all walks of life, from parents to spouses to first responders. To combat these daunting challenges, RCA makes evidence-based addiction treatment accessible and affordable. Below, Steve Wicke, CEO of RCA at Devon in Devon, Pennsylvania, offers some insight into their life-saving, and life-changing, mission.
Read the full article on Addiction is an isolating disease. Here’s how to treat it.
