“I don’t want my kids to grow up and be addicted. I want that to end. I hope they never have to deal with what I have dealt with. If you genuinely want help, there is help out there.”
Angelique Grooms, a mother who is in recovery from opioid addiction, shares her journey in this special 9&10 News report. She’s among a growing number of pregnant women who have struggled or are continuing to struggle with opioid addiction, and who are breaking the stigma and getting help through supportive programs and medical assistance.
Video courtesy of 9&10 News
What are Opioids?
Opioids are narcotics used for pain relief that produce morphine-like effects on the body. These drugs have significant side effects and can even lead to death when misused. Common names of opioids are:
- Hydrocodone (Vicodin, Norco)
- Oxycodone (Percocet, OxyContin)
- Morphine
- Codeine (Tylenol #3, Tylenol #4)
- Fentanyl
- Methadone
- Tramadol (Ultram)
What We’re Doing
The opioid crisis will take continued collaboration and concerted efforts to solve. We’re seeing a slight positive turn in statistics and are committed to helping our community resolve this issue within our mission and role as a health care provider.
With the help of the Michigan Opioid Partnership and like-minded providers and agencies, Munson Healthcare will continue our efforts to reduce and ultimately put an end to the opioid crisis affecting our region and beyond.
How You Can Help
Nearly 69 percent of people nationally who misuse pain medication get them from a friend or relative. Here are several important steps you can take to help prevent a loved one who may be at risk for opioid addiction:
- Keep medications in the container you received them in.
- Keep the container locked in a cool, dry place out of reach of children and pets.
- Do not store medications in places that allow easy access, such as kitchens or bathrooms.
- Keep track of the number of pills you have left.
- Dispose safely of medications as soon as you are finished taking them.
Click here to find more resources for battling opioids, including safe disposal of unused or expired medicine.