Food for Thought: Addictions

The National Safety Council recently announced that for the first time in history the odds of an American dying from an accidental opioid overdose are higher than dying from a motor vehicle crash––1 in 96 vs. 1 in 103. USA Today, 1/15/19, p.1A

This does not even account for all of the people who are still living addicted to opioids or other substances. It doesn’t account for people who die in car crashes caused by addicts. When we talk about addictions, we shouldn’t forget that addiction is a complex disease, often chronic in nature, which affects the functioning of the brain and body. It also causes serious damage to families, relationships, schools, workplaces and neighborhoods. Addiction can be effectively prevented, treated and managed by healthcare professionals with other support.

Addiction is further complicated by the stigmas surrounding it. For many, especially those who have a predisposition toward addiction (an addictive personality) may have gotten into the problem without realizing what can happen. One prescription for painkillers can cause someone who is vulnerable to become addicted in as little as five days.

Most responsible doctors will make sure that the patient is monitored so that addiction does not happen, but for far too long, even doctors were unaware of how quickly some people can become entangled. Children and young adults who experiment with drugs, alcohol and tobacco are very much in danger, but even the elderly who have chronic health problems can all too easily fall prey to over-use of prescription drugs.

“Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.”’1 Corinthians 6:19-20

“No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.” 1 Corinthians 10:13