Know the facts about substance use disorder in Indiana.
Substance use disorder impacts every corner of our state. Many of those struggling with addiction are people we know – our family members, our friends, our co-workers, our neighbors. They face a wide range of stigmas that may prevent them from seeking treatment. As Hoosiers, we can stand against the stigma of substance use disorder by learning and listening.
Whether you or someone you know is suffering from addiction, the more you know about opioid and substance use disorders, the more compassionate and supportive person you can be.
What is addiction?
Addiction to drugs, also known as substance use disorder, is a disease that affects thousands of Hoosiers. Those who are struggling with substance use disorder are unable to control their use of illegal or legally prescribed drugs. For many, addiction begins quietly. It may start with the recreational use of a drug. In the case of opioids and other painkillers, it may begin when a doctor prescribes a medication. Whatever the reason, once addicted, this disease affects a person's brain, and they will continue to use the drug despite repercussions.
Addiction is a disease, but with support and treatment, there is hope.
Several Hoosiers have shared their experience with substance use disorder. See their stories of addiction, treatment and recovery.
Indiana substance use disorder facts
Oftentimes, addiction can seem like something that happens “somewhere else.” However, Hoosiers are affected by opioid and other substance use disorders as much as anywhere else across the United States.
Indiana has taken an “all hands on deck” approach to fighting substance use disorder. By taking steps to prevent people from becoming dependent, increasing access to treatment and supporting recovery opportunities, we’ve been making an impact.
To help prevent dependency, Governor Holcomb signed SEA 221 into law, requiring prescribers to check INSPECT, Indiana’s prescription drug monitoring program, before prescribing opioids or benzodiazepines. This law helps reduce dangerous drug interactions, doctor shopping and substance dependency.
Increasing access to treatment is one of the best ways to address substance use disorder in our communities. Since 2017, more than 56,000 Hoosiers have been served by Opioid Treatment Programs, and now 1.6 million Hoosiers have access to addiction treatment through Medicaid.
As of August 2020, Indiana has nine counties with active syringe service programs and 13 counties with harm reduction programs. Needle exchange and retrieval programs work to prevent disease, serve as a gateway to public health and social services, and have helped more than 10,000 people since April 2015.
Because recovery from addiction is a lifelong journey, Indiana has committed $1.4 million to expand recovery housing for Hoosiers dealing with substance use disorder. Currently, there are 130 certified recovery residences in the state and counting. More than 1,100 Hoosiers have been served.
The actions being taken by state and local, private and public organizations are making great strides in the fight against substance use disorder. As a Hoosier, you can help make an impact in your community by knowing about addiction, providing support to those in treatment and understanding there is hope because recovery is possible.
Gain understanding
Sometimes the best way to learn is by hearing someone’s story. Putting yourself in their shoes or finding the similarities between yourself and your neighbor helps you gain a better understanding of their experience. The disease of substance use disorder can change lives, disrupt dreams and ruin relationships. However, we know there is hope for everyone facing this disease. That’s why it’s so important to hear the stories of addiction, treatment and recovery from those who’ve experienced it.
Watch real stories from Hoosiers to gain an understanding of substance use disorder and the hope that comes from possibilities, compassion, connection and love.
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