Amidst the bustling Silicon Valley offices filled with driven startup executives and venture capitalists, there is a growing problem of heroin addiction. This reality came to light in 2014 when a Google executive overdosed on the drug while on his yacht in Santa Cruz.
The Trend Of Heroin Addiction In Silicon Valley
The trend in heroin use in Silicon Valley has been largely fueled by driven web developers and competitive entrepreneurs who are using the drug as a way to cope with their work-driven lifestyle. Tech workers at all stages in their careers are finding themselves struggling with addiction to heroin, as well as to other substances including prescription painkillers, stimulants and smart drugs. Some addiction specialists believe that the problem is much worse than what most people think, because many of these individuals are high functioning and very adept at hiding their problem. In Silicon Valley, it’s not uncommon to work for days at a time without sleep to get new projects and ventures launched. Yet, this comes at a cost. Many of these workaholics are drawn to drugs to keep them functioning. When it is time to take a break, it’s not uncommon for them to reach for a substance to unwind. Heroin is widely available throughout the San Francisco Bay Area and particularly in Silicon Valley where dealers are more than happy to sell it to tech workers with six figure salaries. Sadly, many tech employers also turn a blind eye to drug use because they are concerned more about results, than the long-term well-being of their employees. Find Out: Is Silicon Valley Addicted To “Smart” Drugs?
The Connection Between Prescription Painkillers And Heroin Addiction
Across the United States, there is an increasing epidemic of both heroin use and prescription painkiller abuse. This is tied to the over-prescribing of painkillers, such as hydrocodone and oxycodone. Many heroin addicts start their journey of addiction as patients who are prescribed opioid prescription drugs for back pain or sports-related injuries. The progression of prescription painkiller use to abuse to heroin addiction is relatively common. For some, the need to take the drug quickly becomes necessary to function in the workplace. When pills become insufficient, or are no longer prescribed, often individuals begin smoking or snorting heroin and then eventually get to the point where they are injecting it because of their increasing tolerance.
Are You Or A Colleague Or Loved One Taking Heroin?
Heroin use has doubled nationally from 2002 to 2012. It’s important to know that you’re not alone. There are many individuals throughout Silicon Valley and beyond who are struggling with addiction to this powerful drug. Don’t battle addiction alone. Call for help from a heroin detox center. With a single call, you can take a proactive step to regain a positive life free from the grip of heroin addiction. Learn More About Our Prescription Drug Addiction Program
