Prescription Drug Abuse Programs in Colorado Springs

Prescription drug abuse is a prevalent issue in many parts of the United States, including Colorado Springs, Colorado. To combat this issue, various prescription drug abuse programs have been implemented in the state and specifically within Colorado Springs to help those struggling with addiction.

Colorado has been consistently ranked among the worst states for drug abuse, according to the National Survey on Substance Abuse and Health. In 2017, Colorado recorded a rate of 10.2 drug overdose deaths per 100,000 persons, compared to the national average of 14.6 deaths per 100,000 individuals (Center for Disease Control and Prevention).

Colorado Springs is one of the largest cities in the state, where at least 15% population of Colorado's total drug-related admissions come from, according to data from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).

Programs and Facilities in Colorado Springs:

1. AspenRidge Recovery: Located in Lakewood and Fort Collins, Colorado, AspenRidge Recovery campuses provide comprehensive care for addiction recovery, including in-person and online treatment options. They offer a Prescription Drug Addiction program for individuals struggling with prescription drug abuse.

2. Cedar Springs Hospital: This facility offers a Chemical Dependency Intensive Outpatient Program (CDIOP), suitable for individuals with prescription drug abuse problems. It provides a comprehensive, structured, and supportive setting for patients.

3. Peaks Recovery Centers: It is a residential and outpatient drug rehab situated in Colorado Springs, which has programs for both young adults and adults struggling with prescription drug abuse. They treat various addictions, including benzodiazepines, sleeping pills, and opioid pain medications.

4. The Recovery Village Palmer Lake: Located north of Colorado Springs, The Recovery Village aims to help patients struggling with drug and alcohol addiction recover by offering a full continuum of care. They provide medical support, psychological counseling, and various therapies for prescription drug abuse.

5. Sandstone Care: This rehab center offers a comprehensive set of treatment options for young people struggling with prescription drug addiction, including detox, residential, and outpatient services.

["Take Meds Seriously Colorado Springs" Initiative](http://www.takemedsseriously.org/): This campaign launched in Colorado Springs aims to reduce prescription medication abuse by promoting safe use, storage, and disposal of prescription medications. This initiative has played a significant role in enhancing awareness and encouraging safe practices around prescription medications.

The Colorado Prescription Drug Monitoring Program (PDMP): This is a critical element of Colorado's strategy to combat prescription drug abuse. The PDMP is a secure, statewide database that assists medical professionals in prescribing and dispensing medication.

Prescription Drug Disposal Programs: Colorado Springs also has a prescription drug disposal program where residents are advised to dispose of unused or expired medication in a secure and environmentally responsible way to reduce the chances of misuse or abuse.

The state of Colorado and local initiatives in Colorado Springs have shown a strong commitment to tackling the issue of prescription drug abuse. The focus is on both treatment opportunities and preventative measures, addressing root causes, and providing care for those struggling with addiction.