The lives of countless Americans are being devastated by addiction. Drug overdoses continue to take lives. Prescription painkillers are being misused at alarming rates. An estimated 2.2 million children had been affected by the opioid crisis in the U.S. by 2017 and the U.S. spent some $2.5 trillion on the opioid crisis from 2015 to 2018.
Addiction does not discriminate—it affects all of us, including our friends, colleagues, and loved ones. Without a sustained and comprehensive effort, this public health crisis—both in Indiana and around the country—will continue to endanger the health of our families, our businesses, and our communities. As recognized by Indiana Governor Eric J. Holcomb, the complexity and scope of the problem require that all sectors come together to address all aspects of addiction. Preventing, treating, and ending addiction in Indiana necessitates that local communities, state agencies, lawmakers, private industry, healthcare, community and nongovernmental organizations, and research universities each have a crucial role.
