The opioid epidemic: origins, current state and potential solutions

Part I Origins of addiction. Brief history of opioid misuse and addiction

Why do some people become addicted to opioids while others don't?

How culture, religion, and society impact opioid addiction

Effect of policy and governmental regulations on the opioid epidemic

Part II Recognizing that a problem exists. Current data and worldwide opioid misuse statistics

Changing trends in opioid misuse

Actual cost of the opioid epidemic

Impact of the opioid epidemic on healthcare infrastructure

Part III Treatment plan. Detoxification : how do we get ourselves off opioids?

Outpatient treatment modalities

True cost of opioid addiction treatment

Harm-reduction, legal issues, drug court and other alternatives to discipline

Part IV Recovery. Stopping the cycle of relapse

Rethinking anti-drug policies and changing drug education

Proactive measures to prevent opioid addiction

Can we make opioid misuse less dangerous?