Drug overdose is the leading cause of unintentional death in the United States. Opioid addiction is driving the epidemic. The Public Health Institute believes that solving the opioid crisis will be a collective effort.

Depression and addiction are often linked. Symptoms of depression can drive people toward substance abuse to help cope with their condition. However, self-medicating with drugs or alcohol usually leads to a downward spiral and addiction.

Coming off opioids is extremely difficult, but with a good strategy, it can and has been successfully done. Scientists and doctors that try to find new ways to help opioid addicts focus on finding treatments that are both safe and effective.

Receiving treatment for addiction is the only proven way to break the cycle. In the US, about 8 percent of the population, or 21.7 million people, need or regularly receive treatment for substance use disorders.

To better fight opioid addiction, the first step is understanding what it is and how it works in the human body. Having an understanding of the mechanics of opioid addiction gives us perspective and empathy for those suffering from it.

Addiction and anxiety go hand-in-hand. A lot of addicts use to control anxiety, not realizing it only leads to more anxiety. Alcohol, for example, changes serotonin levels and other transmitters in the brain, which can elevate anxiety.

Opioids come from natural and synthetic painkillers derived or based on the poppy plant. Opioids are often prescribed by doctors to relieve acute pain stemming from injuries, surgeries, toothaches, or other medical procedures.

When your life is being destroyed due to drug or alcohol addiction, the best thing you can do is find a treatment center and stop the downward spiral before it's too late.