In response to the ongoing crisis of opioid misuse, U.S. doctors had already cut the amount of opioids they gave patients after surgery by 2022 to just a third of the amount given in 2016, new research shows. Read more...
Recently, Ascensa Health has seen an increase in clients needing treatment for synthetic opioids including Fentanyl and Isotonitazene. Isotonitazene (aka nitazene or "ISO”) is more potent that Fentanyl. In 2021, drug overdose deaths surpassed 100,000 and 75% of these deaths involved a synthetic opioid. Learn more...
The findings in this report provide a clearer characterization of the factors associated with recovery among adults and how future efforts can foster a whole-health approach to sustain recovery from mental health and substance use conditions. Read the report...
Scientists are searching for effective alternatives to treat pain and are looking to develop prescription medications that do not lead to addiction. Learn more...
Now that Narcan (the opioid overdose reversing nasal spray medication) is available over the counter, it is important to know how to use the lifesaving medication. Learn more about the signs of an opioid overdose and how to administer Narcan. Learn more...
Breakthrough research shows genetic markers for substance abuse and could lead to more effective ways to prevent and treat drug and alcohol use disorders. Learn more...
Narcan is now approved by the FDA to be sold without a prescription. This will pave the way for the life-saving medication to be sold directly to consumers in places like drug stores, convenience stores, grocery stores and gas stations, as well as online. Read more...
Researchers report they have created a vaccine to fight fentanyl addiction, in a potential breakthrough in the opioid epidemic. Read more...
"People with substance use disorder are coming to our hospitals now," said Englander, who directs an addiction care team at Oregon Health and Science University. "We can't wait. We have to do better, and this is the time." Read this story...
In September, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency and law enforcement partners announced the first significant seizure of rainbow fentanyl. So-called rainbow fentanyl began showing up on the streets on the West Coast in February and has gradually made its way across the country. Learn more...
There is a staggering gap between the number of Americans who need care for anxiety, depression and other mental health conditions and those who can actually get it, a new survey shows. Learn more...
This summer, every state rolled out 988 as the new National Suicide Prevention Lifeline number to call for mental health crises, similar to how people can call 911 for medical emergencies. Read more...
As of July 1, 2022, fentanyl test strips, which can detect a lethal synthetic opioid you cannot taste, or see, or smell, will be legal in Georgia. Georgia is one of more than 20 US states that have moved to decriminalize controversial fentanyl test strips. More...
Join us for our 60th Anniversary Voices of Recovery Luncheon on September 27, 2022 at Zoo Atlanta to celebrate our history and vision for the future of recovery in Atlanta! Learn about our decades of dedication to addiction treatment and hear an incredible recovery story...
Organizations that help those in long term recovery from drugs and alcohol are asking state lawmakers for $2 million to help fund Narcan for first responders, especially in more rural parts of the state. Read more...
While use of alcohol, cannabis, or other drugs is common among adolescents, previous studies have suggested that most teens reduce or cease drug use as they enter adulthood. However, this study indicates that adolescents with multiple symptoms of substance use disorder - indicating higher severity...
A wearable device and paired smartphone app that could inject a lifesaving antidote for an opioid overdose might be on the horizon. More information...
Young adults who experienced trauma in childhood are more at risk for misusing prescription opioids, according to new research from the University of Georgia. Read more...
At Ascensa Health, we offer primary healthcare services to our clients to help them improve their physical health while they receive treatment. The integrated care provided by our Health Services program leads to better outcomes for our clients. View our services....
The new year can be a motivating time to pursue recovery from alcohol and/or drug addiction. This article shares tips for maintaining recovery and planning a healthier future. Six ways to stay sober...
The Georgia COVID-19 Emotional Support Line provides free and confidential assistance to callers needing emotional support or resources information as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Hours of operation: 8 am - 11 pm. Call 866.399.8938. See flyer for more information...
At Ascensa Health at St. Jude's Recovery Center, we place the safety and health of our clients and staff members above all else. We are closely monitoring COVID-19 (Coronavirus) through the CDC, the World Health Organization, and the GA Dept. of Public Health. We are taking every...
The holiday season presents special challenges for those in recovery. Individuals in recovery and their loved ones can understand how to maintain sobriety in the face of stress, anxiety and depression brought on by the holidays by reading this article. ...
Ascensa Health's Family Services program provides support to anyone with a loved one who struggles with addiction. Due in part to the opioid crisis, Ascensa Health's clients are younger and more connected to their families than they have been in the past. We plan to...
New laws in seven US states require that doctors offer or co-prescribe Naloxone when prescribing opioid painkillers to patients who are at high risk of overdose. Naloxone, also known as Narcan, is an opioid overdose reversing medication and is offered over the counter in most...