Drug Store Burglars Take Prescription Medications in Tammany County

Two people broke into a pharmacy in Covington, Louisiana, robbing the pharmacy of prescription medications early this month. They were caught on video but not in person, and deputies in St. Tammany Parish are now searching for them. The robbery took place about 20 minutes after the two individuals attempted to break into a pharmacy near Mandeville; this too was caught on surveillance video. It is believed that these two people were also behind two similar robberies in Hammond and that they were driving a stolen white van.

Because the sole focus of these robberies was prescription medications, it is likely that these were addiction-related crimes. Prescription drugs are expensive, and when one is out of money, heroin is also expensive. Some resort to criminal behaviors that generate money to buy drugs of choice; others go straight to the source and begin selling drugs themselves in order to pay for their own habit, or they rob pharmacies and medical facilities.

Too often, crimes like these end up complicating a relatively straightforward situation. A person with an addiction disorder will have a difficult time managing impulsive behaviors and is primarily ruled by the need to engage in their addiction behavior of choice. The good news is that, as long as the crime is nonviolent, when caught, those who commit crimes motivated by an addiction disorder may have the opportunity to connect with treatment services that can be life-changing through a judge’s order. Here’s what you need to know.

Addiction Is Treatable

Whether addiction manifests in the use and abuse of drugs and alcohol, gambling, shopping, disordered eating, or unhealthy sexual behaviors, it is a highly treatable disease. Professional treatment programs that are designed to meet the individual’s needs by creating a personalized treatment plan, and continually assessing and evaluating how treatment is progressing, has the highest likelihood of having a positive impact on a person’s ability to manage addiction healthfully.

Though everyone will require a unique combination of treatments and therapies, in general, it is recommended that those struggling with addiction choose a program that will provide them with:

• A complete evaluation and assessment process at the beginning of treatment to identify any co-occurring disorders and to better understand the experience and goals of the individual requesting treatment
• A unique treatment plan based on the results of the evaluation process and the goals of the client as they determine their path forward in recovery
• Personal therapy sessions that allow for case management as well as continued assessment of progress and updated treatment goals
• Peer support through group therapy sessions and 12-Step meetings
• Family support through workshops, family therapy sessions, and support groups
• Long-term follow-up care and support through aftercare and alumni groups

Signs and Symptoms of Addiction

Recognizing the signs and symptoms of addiction is essential in seeking help for yourself or a loved one. Here are some common signs to look out for:

• Increased tolerance to the substance, needing more to achieve the same effect
• Withdrawal symptoms when attempting to quit or cut back on use
• Loss of interest in hobbies and activities previously enjoyed
• Continuing to use despite negative consequences such as health problems or relationship issues
• Spending excessive amounts of time obtaining, using, and recovering from the substance
• Neglecting responsibilities at home, work, or school due to substance use
• Changes in mood or behavior, including irritability, depression, anxiety, or aggression

If you notice any of these signs and symptoms in yourself or a loved one, it's important to seek professional help. Addiction is a treatable condition with the right support and resources.

The Importance of Getting Help

If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, it's important to seek help as soon as possible. Addiction is a progressive disease that gets worse over time. The longer you wait to get help, the harder it will be to overcome.

Getting help for addiction can be a life-changing experience. Treatment can help you:

• Overcome withdrawal symptoms
• Learn coping skills
• Address underlying mental health conditions
• Repair relationships
• Improve your overall quality of life

Types of Treatment

There are a variety of treatment options available for addiction, including:

• Inpatient treatment
• Outpatient treatment
• Medication-assisted treatment
• Counseling and therapy

The type of treatment that's right for you will depend on your individual needs and circumstances. It's important to work with a qualified healthcare professional to develop a personalized treatment plan.

How to Approach a Loved One Who May Be Struggling with Addiction

Approaching a loved one who may be struggling with addiction can be a difficult and emotional experience. Here are some tips to help you approach the conversation:

• Choose the right time and place: Make sure you choose a private and calm environment where both of you can speak freely without distractions.
• Use "I" statements: Start the conversation by expressing your concern for their well-being using "I" statements. For example, "I have noticed that you have been drinking more than usual lately, and I'm concerned about your health."
• Listen actively: Allow your loved one to express themselves without interrupting or judging them. Listen actively to what they have to say.
• Avoid blame and criticism: Blaming or criticizing your loved one will only make them defensive and less likely to seek help. Instead, offer support and understanding.
• Offer resources: Provide information on treatment options, support groups, or counseling services that can help them overcome their addiction.

Remember that addiction is a disease, not a choice. It's important to approach the conversation with empathy, love, and understanding. By offering support and resources, you can help your loved one take the first step towards recovery.

Aftercare and Ongoing Support

Achieving sobriety is a significant accomplishment, but it's important to understand that recovery is an ongoing process. After completing a formal treatment program, it's essential to continue receiving support and care.

Aftercare programs can help individuals maintain their sobriety by providing ongoing support and resources. These programs may include:

• Support groups: Groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or Narcotics Anonymous (NA) provide peer support and encouragement for individuals in recovery.
• Counseling: Continuing counseling or therapy can help individuals address underlying mental health conditions that may contribute to addiction.
• Medication management: Some individuals may require medication to manage cravings or other symptoms related to addiction.
• Sober living homes: Sober living homes offer a supportive environment for individuals in recovery who need additional structure and accountability.

It's important to work with a healthcare professional to develop an aftercare plan that meets your individual needs. By continuing to receive support and care, you can increase your chances of maintaining long-term sobriety and achieving a fulfilling life in recovery.

Finding Help

If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, there are many resources available to help. Some places to start include:

• Your primary care physician
• Mental health professionals
• Substance abuse treatment centers
• Support groups (such as Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous)

It's important to remember that addiction is a treatable condition. With the right help and support, you can overcome addiction and live a healthy, fulfilling life.

There Is No Such Thing as ‘Rock Bottom’

Too often, concerned family members who are rebuffed in their attempts to help their loved one connect with treatment services tell themselves that either it is a phase that will pass on its own or that the person just needs to hit “rock bottom” before they can get help. The truth is that “rock bottom” is a myth. It does not exist. One person can hear from their spouse that they are about to file for divorce if they don’t get help and immediately realize that it’s time to go to treatment while another person can lose their spouse, their kids, their health, and their job and still refuse to acknowledge that they need help. The fact is that drug use is too dangerous to continue at any level when it is having a negative impact on a person’s life, and with the high rate of fentanyl-laced substances circulating on the streets, even occasional use can result in a deadly overdose.

You Do Not Have to Go through This Alone

Whether or not your loved one living with addiction is ready to admit that they have a problem, you do not have to face this alone. Family members are hit hard by a loved one’s addiction. You need support and recovery as much as your loved one does, and the sooner you connect with others who can help you to more objectively view your situation, the better able you will be to help your family member connect with treatment services.

Conclusion

If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, it's important to know that you're not alone. Millions of people worldwide are affected by addiction, and there are many resources available to help you overcome it.

Seeking professional help is the first step towards recovery. Treatment options include inpatient and outpatient treatment, medication-assisted treatment, and counseling and therapy. It's important to work with a qualified healthcare professional to develop a personalized treatment plan that meets your individual needs and circumstances.

Remember, addiction is a treatable condition. With the right help and support, you can overcome addiction and live a healthy, fulfilling life.

Are you ready to take the first step toward recovery?

Sources:

• National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2021). DrugFacts: Understanding Drug Use and Addiction.
• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2021). Behavioral Health Treatment Services Locator.