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Experts believe the precipitous rise was driven by abuse of the synthetic opioid fentanyl, as well as the COVID-19 pandemic, which has left many drug users feeling isolated and unable to get treatment or other support. Fentanyl is believed to be much more potent than heroin and morphine.

Learn about reducing the risk of opioids overdose Dec. 16 at 1 p.m. ET. The webinar will provide actions community providers can take.

Nearly 60 percent who served in the Middle East, and more than 50 percent of older Veterans, live with some form of chronic pain. And we have to provide them – and all Americans – safe, effective pain management that lets them live fulfilling lives.

No one knows if or when a suicide crisis will strike. Don’t wait. Take the time now to be prepared in case one happens.

Be prepared for a suicide crisis before it starts by becoming familiar with VA’s programs, initiatives and network of support.

VA’s Opioid Safety Initiative has reduced the number of Veterans prescribed an opioid by more than 50% over the past six years.

Over the past six years, VA’s Opioid Safety Initiative (OSI) has reduced opioid dispensing more than 50%. Most of this reduction is attributable to not starting new, long-term opioid therapy in Veterans with chronic pain.

It is estimated more than 2 million Americans will suffer from addiction to prescription or illicit opioids in 2018.

Combating the opioid crisis head on is key to reducing the number of Veterans who die from opioid overdoses, and to changing the way VA offers care to Veterans.

VA has begun publicly posting information on opioids dispensed from VA pharmacies, along with VA’s strategies to prescribe these pain medications appropriately and safely.

The growth and interest in mindfulness is due in large part to an impressive body of evidence that suggests mindfulness meditation practices can mitigate a number of physical and mental health issues, ranging from dealing with cancer and depression, to sleep problems and chronic pain.

This week, across the nation, federal, state and local agencies, as well at their public and private sector partners are bringing attention to the public health crisis caused by drug overdoses.