National Opioid Crisis Expert, Dynamic Speaker And Author, Dr. John Rosa Encourages Individual Responsibility In Light Of The Uncharted Territory We Face

addiction

Dr. John P. Rosa, opioid crisis expert, author and dynamic speaker turns his attention to COVID19 and the effect of social isolation on the hundreds and thousands of people addicted to opioids who will no longer be able to attend meetings or receive hands on treatments such as chiropractic and acupuncture.

ROCKVILLE, MD. April 13, 2020: Dr. John Rosa, dynamic speaker, national opioid crises expert, and co-author of The Recipe for Success with Jack Canfield, posted a new article on his website entitled, “The Effect Of COVID19 Pandemic On The Opioid Epidemic,” in which Dr. Rosa acknowledges that unlike gun deaths and opioid deaths, the pandemic cannot be ignored.

According to Dr. Rosa, “The way a nation takes care of all of its citizens is a reflection of that nations’ evolution as human beings.” He adds, “So far, here in the U.S. we don’t get a great score as a global pandemic adds to a score of other challenges.”

Dr. Rosa writes, “We, as a nation have been slogging through an opioid epidemic since the early 1990s that was brought on by the very people who are supposed to be most concerned about the health and well-being of their fellow humans.” He further elaborates, “Efforts to stop the blatant over prescribing of addictive drugs has been slow to non-existent. Even today, if you go to the doctor or even the dentist for a simple ache or pain, the first thing most do is reach for their prescription pad to give you pain killers.” “The point is,” says Dr. Rosa, “we could be doing a lot more and a lot better.”

“Now,” says Dr. Rosa, “here we are in the midst of a virulent global pandemic. And, the big deal about this is that every single person is at risk. This is a reality that cannot be ignored.” He emphasizes, “No one can be judged as being weak or an addict if they get the Coronavirus. Unlike the people who became addicted to a drug that the medical establishment knew was highly addictive.”

Dr. Rosa goes on to say, “Most of us humans are by nature social creatures. During the social distancing and self-isolation required during the COVID19 pandemic, many people will be able to handle the lack of socializing for a while.” He adds, “We have technology that allows us to visit with our friends and loved ones.” He elaborates further, “However, while most of us prepare to hunker down at home and self-isolate with our favorite foods and abundant supplies of toilet paper, there is a segment of the population that will have a very difficult time with social isolation.”

According to Dr. Rosa, “People who are addicted to opioids, alcohol and other drugs and have been attending 12-Step programs will no longer be able to meet and talk about their challenges. For these people, isolation actually feeds addiction. Patients that rely on Chiropractic, physical therapy and acupuncture for pain control are finding it hard to find clinics that haven’t shut their doors. clinics are closed. Relapses are already being reported at a higher rate in just the last few weeks.”

Read the entire article at http://glt.kji.mybluehost.me/the-effect-of-covid19-pandemic-on-the-opioid-epidemic/

About Dr. John Rosa:

Dr. John Rosa owns and supervises Accessible Beltway Clinics, which is comprised of 17 clinics in Maryland and Virginia that sees over 60,000 patient visits per year. ABC Clinics combine medicine, chiropractic, physical therapy, acupuncture and behavioral medicine to give a comprehensive multidisciplinary approach to pain syndromes and musculoskeletal disorders. Active in sports medicine with consulting/treating athletes in several universities, NBA, MLB, NHL and USA Olympic Basketball. Creator of 24/7 RnR an FDA approved analgesic cream; a proprietary blend of the most potent materials resulting in the most effective product on the market for pain Relief and aiding Recovery. Founder of Accessible Wellness Solutions – an onsite corporate wellness program offering consulting, lectures and management of onsite clinics.

Leader in Chiropractic:

Trustee of New York Chiropractic College for over 15 years serving final 3-year term as Chairman of the Board and given the honor or Board Emeritus post service. Awarded the highest recognitions in Chiropractic Medicine as Fellow of the American Chiropractic Colleges and Fellow of the International Chiropractic Colleges.

Integrative Medicine Specialist:

  • Current Vice Chair of the Board to Maryland University of Integrative Health
  • Consultant on Integrative Medicine to hospital cancer center
  • Reduced opioid prescriptions by 70% by integrating Chiropractic, physical therapy and behavioral medicine in a primary care setting
  • Expert/Speaker – Educating medical community on the Integrative Medicine approach to treating pain

Opioid Crisis Expert:

  • White House Surrogate
  • Law Enforcement Consultant (Homeland Security, CBP, DOJ, DEA and Postal)
  • State and National Consultant to Opioid Task Forces
  • Corporate and Professional Organization Consultant
  • Best-Selling Author®

Community Leadership:

  • Board member of the National Italian American Foundation
  • Founder of “Overdose Free America” a nonprofit 501c which uses the power of celebrity and entertainment to bring the Opioid Crisis the visibility and support it deserves

The Effect Of COVID19 Pandemic On The Opioid Epidemic

By Dr. John Rosa

COVID-19

We’re in the midst of a global pandemic.

The way a nation takes care of all of its citizens is a reflection of that nation’s evolution as human beings. So far, here in the U.S. we don’t get a great score as a global pandemic adds to a score of other challenges.

We, as a nation have been slogging through an opioid epidemic since the early 1990s that was brought on by the very people who are supposed to be most concerned about the health and well-being of their fellow humans. Efforts to stop the blatant over prescribing of addictive drugs has been slow and in some medical specialties not at all. Even today, if you go to the doctor or even the dentist for a simple ache or pain, the first thing most do is reach for their prescription pad to give you pain killers. The point is, we could be doing a lot more.

Now, here we are in the midst of a virulent global pandemic. And, the big deal about this is that every single person is at risk. This is a reality that cannot be ignored. No one can be judged as being weak or an addict if they get the Coronavirus. Unlike the people who became addicted to a drug that the medical establishment knew was highly addictive.

Social Isolation More Difficult For Those In Recovery

Most of us humans are by nature social creatures. During the social distancing and self-isolation required during the COVID19 pandemic, many people will be able to handle the lack of socializing for a while. We have technology that allows us to visit with our friends and loved ones. However, while most of us prepare to hunker down at home and self-isolate with our favorite foods and healthy supplies of toilet paper, there is a segment of the population that will have a very difficult time with social isolation.

People who are addicted to opioids, alcohol and other drugs and have been attending 12-Step programs will no longer be able to meet and talk about their challenges. For these people, isolation actually feeds addiction. Patients that rely on Chiropractic, physical therapy and acupuncture for pain control are finding it hard to find clinics that haven’t shut their doors. Relapses are already being reported at a higher rate in just the last few weeks.

A Global Pandemic On Top Of An Opioid Epidemic

We are in a strange, historic time and critically important time. Who knows how this situation is going to evolve? Lives will continue to be lost as a result of both COVID19 and drug overdoses. It is thought that the COVID19 virus will eventually stop spreading, as viruses do. Though we don’t know how long it will take for it to run its course. However, the opioid epidemic will still be with us and unfortunately the likelihood is that it could be more virulent than ever.

I pray for the safety and well-being of everyone during these unprecedented times. My heart goes out to all those who have fallen due to COVID19 and to their families. I pray for the safety of all those on the front lines who serve in the hospitals, the police and other public servants, supermarkets and other essential services personnel. I thank you for your courageous service.

And I pray for all of those who continue to suffer the pain of addiction. Please stay well and safe.

National Opioid Crisis Expert, Dynamic Speaker And Author, Dr. John Rosa Encourages Families And Communities To Keep Talking About Solutions

addiction

Dr. John P. Rosa, opioid crisis expert, author and dynamic speaker wants to keep the opioid crisis conversation going to convince those who’ve been devastated by the crisis, as well as the makers, prescribers and regulators to do whatever possible to stem the problem and prevent it from continuing to wreak havoc.

ROCKVILLE, MD. March 2, 2020: Dr. John Rosa, dynamic speaker, national opioid crisis expert, and co-author of The Recipe for Success with Jack Canfield, posted a new article on his website entitled, “The Opioid Epidemic Won’t Go Away If We Ignore It,” in which Dr. Rosa encourages talking and taking action.

Dr. Rosa says, “Many of us humans have a tendency to stick our heads in the sand when the going gets rough, hoping that whatever problem we are avoiding will disappear. The opioid epidemic is not going to go away no matter how we try to ignore it.”

“Chances are,” says Dr. Rosa, “the opioid epidemic has wreaked havoc in your home or community. If it has hit close to home,” he asks, “do you feel helpless in the face of this devastating epidemic?” He continues adding, “Those who have been left in its wake are the ones who are most likely to take some kind of action. But, we all have a responsibility to do something to help our children and loved ones avoid or turn away from the devastation of opioid abuse in order to save their lives. But how? Where do we begin?”

Dr. Rosa suggests, “Talking about possible solutions might be a good starting place. Discussing other methods for dealing with pain could be another. Both of these topics, as well as many others help people who have been adversely affected by the opioid crisis feel as if they are doing something. And that feels better than doing nothing.”

Dr. Rosa poses, “What can your community do to create greater interest in helping to solve the problem?” He states, “We need to get to the children. We need to get into the schools and speak about the crisis to the children. We have to inspire the kids to stay away from drugs and to help their friends who may have already started on the path to destruction.”

According to Dr. Rosa, “As parents we must make sure our medicine cabinets are cleared of old pain pills and other drugs that kids may be tempted to experiment with. We have to talk about this uncomfortable topic and be vigilant in looking for signs of drug use in our kids. Making kids angry is far better than watching them die. So, don’t be afraid to talk about drug use with them.”

Dr. Rosa emphasizes, “Nothing can compensate for the loss of a child or other loved one.” He reminds readers, “This epidemic affects all ages, socioeconomic classes, races and religions. Opioid Use Disorder is rampant throughout the country and among high functioning professionals.”

Read the entire article at http://glt.kji.mybluehost.me/the-opioid-epidemic-wont-go-away-if-we-ignore-it/

About Dr. John Rosa:

Dr. John Rosa owns and supervises Accessible Beltway Clinics, which is comprised of 17 clinics in Maryland and Virginia that sees over 60,000 patient visits per year. ABC Clinics combine medicine, chiropractic, physical therapy, acupuncture and behavioral medicine to give a comprehensive multidisciplinary approach to pain syndromes and musculoskeletal disorders. Active in sports medicine with consulting/treating athletes in several universities, NBA, MLB, NHL and USA Olympic Basketball. Creator of 24/7 RnR an FDA approved analgesic cream; a proprietary blend of the most potent materials resulting in the most effective product on the market for pain Relief and aiding Recovery. Founder of Accessible Wellness Solutions – an onsite corporate wellness program offering consulting, lectures and management of onsite clinics.

Leader in Chiropractic:

Trustee of New York Chiropractic College for over 15 years serving final 3-year term as Chairman of the Board and given the honor or Board Emeritus post service. Awarded the highest recognitions in Chiropractic Medicine as Fellow of the American Chiropractic Colleges and Fellow of the International Chiropractic Colleges.

Integrative Medicine Specialist:

  • Current Vice Chair of the Board to Maryland University of Integrative Health
  • Consultant on Integrative Medicine to hospital cancer center
  • Reduced opioid prescriptions by 70% by integrating Chiropractic, physical therapy and behavioral medicine in a primary care setting
  • Expert/Speaker – Educating medical community on the Integrative Medicine approach to treating pain

Opioid Crisis Expert:

  • White House Surrogate
  • Law Enforcement Consultant (Homeland Security, CBP, DOJ, DEA and Postal)
  • State and National Consultant to Opioid Task Forces
  • Corporate and Professional Organization Consultant
  • Best-Selling Author®

Community Leadership:

  • Board member of the National Italian American Foundation
  • Founder of “Overdose Free America” a nonprofit 501c which uses the power of celebrity and entertainment to bring the Opioid Crisis the visibility and support it deserves
  • Volunteer at Crossroads Freedom Center – a residential facility in Maryland to help overcome addiction

The Opioid Epidemic Won’t Go Away If We Ignore It

By Dr. John Rosa

opioid epidemic

Chances are the opioid epidemic has wreaked havoc in your home or community.

If it has hit close to home do you feel helpless in the face of this devastating epidemic? We humans tend to stick our heads in the sand when the going gets rough, hoping that whatever problem we are avoiding will disappear.

The opioid epidemic is not going to go away no matter how we try to ignore it. Those who have been left in its wake are the ones who are most likely to take some kind of action. But, we all have a responsibility to do something to help our children and loved ones avoid or turn away from the devastation of opioid abuse in order to save their lives. But how? Where do we begin?

Talking Might Help

Talking about possible solutions might be a good starting place. Discussing other methods for dealing with pain could be another. Both of these topics, as well as many others help people who have been adversely affected by the opioid crisis feel as if they are doing something. And that feels better than doing nothing.

Community Outreach

What can your community do to create greater interest in helping to solve the problem?

We need to get to the children. We need to get into the schools and speak about the crisis to the children. We have to inspire the kids to stay away from drugs and to help their friends who may have already started on the path to destruction.

Make Sure You Aren’t Contributing To The Problem

As parents we must make sure our medicine cabinets are cleared of old pain pills and other drugs that kids may be tempted to experiment with. We have to talk about this uncomfortable topic and be vigilant in looking for signs of drug use in our kids. Making kids angry is far better than watching them die. So, don’t be afraid to talk about drug use with them.

Nothing can compensate for the loss of a child or other loved one. This epidemic affects all ages, socioeconomic classes, races and religions. Opioid Use Disorder is rampant throughout the country and among high functioning professionals.

The Same Thing Happened 100 Years Ago

Back in the 1890’s, Bayer, the aspirin maker marketed heroin in the same way opioids have been marketed in the current opioid epidemic. “Bayer targeted physicians, which led to hundreds of favorable clinical papers, “a form of advertising that would be reprinted in myriad newspapers and magazines. The Boston Medical and Surgical Journal gushed: “Heroin possesses many advantages. It’s not hypnotic and there’s no danger of acquiring a habit.””

Sounds very familiar. The sad truth is that there are many co-conspirators who are not facing the burden of responsibility for the current epidemic. I’m talking about the physicians as well as the regulators who failed to do their duty and protect the public.

Let’s Keep Talking

If we talk about it enough, maybe the regulators will get the message and do their job instead of lining their pockets while so many innocent people die. If you, or someone you love is dependent or addicted to opioid drugs, please seek help before it’s too late. If you would like to learn more about the Opioid Crisis as it relates to awareness, prevention and treatment or schedule a corporate or organization seminar contact us at DrJohnRosa.com. Here you will learn how to connect you, your company or organization with the leading experts on the crisis and how to help your community stay safe.

National Opioid Crisis Expert, Dynamic Speaker And Author, Dr. John Rosa Writes About The Impactful Netflix Documentary The Pharmacist

opioid crisis

Dr. John P. Rosa, opioid crisis expert, author and dynamic speaker shares his thoughts on the new Netflix documentary series, The Pharmacist which explores a father’s journey after the overdose death of his son.

ROCKVILLE, MD. February 21, 2020: Owner of Accessible Beltway Clinics and opioid crises expert, Dr. John Rosa, posted a new blog on his website entitled, “The Pharmacist And The Pain That Never Goes Away,” in which Dr. Rosa discusses a new Netflix documentary series.

As Dr. Rosa points out, “People react differently to tragedy.” He continues adding, “Unfortunately hundreds of thousands of parents have been in the position of reacting to the tragedy of losing a child to the opioid crisis that has been ravaging this country since the late 1990’s. Most of those parents were helpless and didn’t know what to do. In drug overdose situations there often seems like there is nothing that can be done.”

“Some of the children may not have died from an overdose,” Dr. Rosa writes, elaborating, “Some of them may have been killed attempting to get drugs in dangerous neighborhoods. Such was the case that is brought to light in a documentary series recently produced by Netflix.”

According to Dr. Rosa, “The documentary poses some intense and important questions. For instance, “What would you do if your child was killed in a drug deal and the cops were less than helpful? Would you be paralyzed with grief, shaking your head at the idea that your kid was an addict, or something else?” As the documentary series portrays, “One pharmacist in Louisiana took it upon himself to find his son’s killer, and after that was over, took what he learned and decided to fight a Big Pharma company that was making more young people into addicts.”

Read the entire blog at http://glt.kji.mybluehost.me/the-pharmacist-and-the-pain-that-never-goes-away/

About Dr. John P. Rosa

Dr. Rosa is the Owner/manager of 14 health clinics in the Baltimore/Washington DC metro areas concentrating on musculoskeletal injuries of acute, subacute and chronic nature. He oversees the Integrative Medicine practice group which includes general medicine, Chiropractic, physical therapy, acupuncture and behavioral medicine that sees over 60,000 patient visits per year.

Active in sports medicine with consulting/treating college, professional and Olympic athletes. Creator of 24/7 RnR (Relief and aiding Recovery) an FDA approved analgesic cream. Founder of Accessible Wellness Solutions – an onsite corporate wellness program offering consulting, lectures and clinic management.

Leader in Chiropractic

Trustee of New York Chiropractic College for over 15 years and serving final 3-year term as Chairman of the Board.

Opioid Crisis Expert:

  • White House Surrogate/Consultant
  • Law Enforcement Consultant (Homeland Security, CBP, DOJ, DEA and Postal)
  • State and National Consultant to Opioid Task Forces
  • Corporate and professional organization consultant
  • Currently forming the Opioid Abuse Prevention Institute

Integrative Medicine Specialist:

  • Board service to Maryland University of Integrative Health
  • Consultant on Integrative Medicine to hospital cancer center
  • Reduced opioid prescriptions by 70% by integrating Chiropractic, physical therapy and behavioral medicine in a primary care setting
  • Expert/Speaker – educating primary care, urgent care and hospital medical staff on the Integrative Medicine approach to treating pain patients

National Opioid Crisis Expert, Dynamic Speaker And Author, Dr. John Rosa Starts The Year With Good News For Alternative Care For Opioid Addiction

addiction

Dr. John P. Rosa, opioid crisis expert, author and dynamic speaker talks about the trend among medical schools and medical researchers to focus on nonpharmacological treatments for pain, which has positive implications for the opioid crisis.

ROCKVILLE, MD. February 10, 2020: Dr. John Rosa, dynamic speaker, national opioid crises expert, and co-author of The Recipe for Success with Jack Canfield, posted a new article on his website entitled, “More Medical Educators And Researchers Explore Alternatives To Opioids For Pain,” in which Dr. Rosa offers a look at the positive strides being made.

Dr. Rosa admits, “All too often I write about the heartbreaking, heinous and important statistics associated with the opioid epidemic.” He continues adding, “However, I’m going to kick this New Year and new decade off by sharing some good news that is coming out of our medical colleges which will have a positive effect on the opioid crisis in years to come.”

According to Dr. Rosa, “The fact is that a greater number of medical educators and researchers are increasingly exploring nonpharmacological treatments for pain. The trend seems to be growing in medical colleges across the country in response to the growing opioid crisis.” He further elaborates, “More and more attention is being given to Integrative Medicine which involves instruction in how to care for patients suffering from chronic pain with reductions in or without the use of opioids. And that is great news.”

“Health institutions across the board are joining in on the effort to help curtail and put an end to the opioid addiction in this country,” writes Dr. Rosa. “For instance,” he says, “in 2018, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) launched a cross-divisional effort called the Helping to End Addiction Long-term (HEAL) Initiative.” He offers, “The objective of HEAL is to focus on “evidence-based treatments for opioid misuse and addiction, as well as more innovative solutions for pain management.” This initiative also includes research on “health approaches outside the boundaries of conventional medicine.” Dr. Rosa adds, “This shift in focus has accelerated the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, which is a division of NIH, to accelerate its own research into nonpharmacological treatments for chronic pain.”

Read the entire article at http://glt.kji.mybluehost.me/more-medical-educators-and-researchers-explore-alternatives-to-opioids-for-pain/

About Dr. John P. Rosa

Dr. Rosa is the Owner/manager of 14 health clinics in the Baltimore/Washington DC metro areas concentrating on musculoskeletal injuries of acute, subacute and chronic nature. He oversees the Integrative Medicine practice group which includes general medicine, Chiropractic, physical therapy, acupuncture and behavioral medicine that sees over 60,000 patient visits per year.

Active in sports medicine with consulting/treating college, professional and Olympic athletes. Creator of 24/7 RnR (Relief and aiding Recovery) an FDA approved analgesic cream. Founder of Accessible Wellness Solutions – an onsite corporate wellness program offering consulting, lectures and clinic management.

Leader in Chiropractic

Trustee of New York Chiropractic College for over 15 years and serving final 3-year term as Chairman of the Board.

Opioid Crisis Expert:

  • White House Surrogate/Consultant
  • Law Enforcement Consultant (Homeland Security, CBP, DOJ, DEA and Postal)
  • State and National Consultant to Opioid Task Forces
  • Corporate and professional organization consultant
  • Currently forming the Opioid Abuse Prevention Institute

Integrative Medicine Specialist:

  • Board service to Maryland University of Integrative Health
  • Consultant on Integrative Medicine to hospital cancer center
  • Reduced opioid prescriptions by 70% by integrating Chiropractic, physical therapy and behavioral medicine in a primary care setting
  • Expert/Speaker – educating primary care, urgent care and hospital medical staff on the Integrative Medicine approach to treating pain patients

National Opioid Crisis Expert, Dynamic Speaker And Author, Dr. John Rosa Writes About And To The War-Torn Families Of The Opioid War

addiction

Dr. John P. Rosa, opioid crisis expert, author and dynamic speaker reveals that nearly twice as many Americans have died as a result of opioids than died in WWII. He suggests that we are fighting an internal war in this country and that death by opioids is much bigger than a crisis or an epidemic.

ROCKVILLE, MD. December 30, 2019: Dr. John Rosa, dynamic speaker, national opioid crises expert, and co-author of The Recipe for Success with Jack Canfield, posted a new article on his website entitled, “Some Americans Will Suffer Holidays That Feels As War-Torn As 1941,” in which Dr. Rosa reveals staggering death tolls.

Dr. Rosa states, “As I write this article on the anniversary of the U.S. involvement in WWII, I can’t help but recognize that our country is in the midst of another and perhaps equally deadly war.” He continues, “We are in an internal conflict that has, in an 18-year span, killed more Americans than those who lost their lives in that not-so-distant war.”

“Most people refer to the war I’m talking about as an epidemic,” writes Dr. Rosa. He states, “An epidemic is an illness. I’m suggesting that it is the Opioid War not merely a crisis or an epidemic.”

“Over 405,000 heroic Americans gave their lives in WWII,” Dr. Rosa reminds readers. He goes on to add, “In the past 18 years almost twice as many Americans have lost their lives in a war the majority of them did not know they were entering. A war started by pharmaceutical companies and cultivated by our medical industry.” He reports, “According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), “Drug overdose deaths continue to increase in the United States. From 1999 to 2017, more than 702,000 people have died from a drug overdose. In 2017, more than 70,000 people died from drug overdoses, making it a leading cause of injury-related death in the United States. Of those deaths, almost 68% involved a prescription or illicit opioid.”

Dr. Rosa recognizes that, “Addiction is nothing new. It’s as old as civilization.” “And,” he says, “fighting the distribution of illegal drugs in the U.S. is nothing new. We have fought South American drug lords and Mexican Drug Cartels. We even had a real live shoot out that started the Miami Drug War in a Dade county mall in 1979.” He further adds, “Those wars were waged between people from other countries to protect the citizens of our country. But,” he emphasizes, “we’ve never had to fight such an intense and powerful, money motivated American drug lord.”

Read the entire article at http://glt.kji.mybluehost.me/some-americans-will-suffer-holidays-that-feels-as-war-torn-as-1941/

About Dr. John P. Rosa

Dr. Rosa is the Owner/manager of 14 health clinics in the Baltimore/Washington DC metro areas concentrating on musculoskeletal injuries of acute, subacute and chronic nature. He oversees the Integrative Medicine practice group which includes general medicine, Chiropractic, physical therapy, acupuncture and behavioral medicine that sees over 60,000 patient visits per year.

Active in sports medicine with consulting/treating college, professional and Olympic athletes. Creator of 24/7 RnR (Relief and aiding Recovery) an FDA approved analgesic cream. Founder of Accessible Wellness Solutions – an onsite corporate wellness program offering consulting, lectures and clinic management.

Leader in Chiropractic

Trustee of New York Chiropractic College for over 15 years and serving final 3-year term as Chairman of the Board.

Opioid Crisis Expert:

  • White House Surrogate/Consultant
  • Law Enforcement Consultant (Homeland Security, CBP, DOJ, DEA and Postal)
  • State and National Consultant to Opioid Task Forces
  • Corporate and professional organization consultant
  • Currently forming the Opioid Abuse Prevention Institute

Integrative Medicine Specialist:

  • Board service to Maryland University of Integrative Health
  • Consultant on Integrative Medicine to hospital cancer center
  • Reduced opioid prescriptions by 70% by integrating Chiropractic, physical therapy and behavioral medicine in a primary care setting
  • Expert/Speaker – educating primary care, urgent care and hospital medical staff on the Integrative Medicine approach to treating pain patients

Some Americans Will Suffer Holidays That Feels As War-Torn As 1941

By Dr. John Rosa

overdose deaths

The US is involved in a deadly conflict.

As I write this article on the anniversary of the U.S. involvement in WWII, I can’t help but recognize that our country is in the midst of another and perhaps equally deadly war. We are in an internal conflict that has, in an 18-year span, killed more Americans than those who lost their lives in that not-so-distant war.

Most people refer to the war I’m talking about as an epidemic. An epidemic is an illness. I’m suggesting that it is the Opioid War not merely a crisis or an epidemic.

Past And Current War Figures

Over 405,000 heroic Americans gave their lives in WWII. In the past 18 years almost twice as many Americans have lost their lives in a war the majority of them did not know they were entering. A war started by pharmaceutical companies and cultivated by our medical industry. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), “Drug overdose deaths continue to increase in the United States. From 1999 to 2017, more than 702,000 people have died from a drug overdose. In 2017, more than 70,000 people died from drug overdoses, making it a leading cause of injury-related death in the United States. Of those deaths, almost 68% involved a prescription or illicit opioid.”

External Wars Easier Than Internal Wars

Addiction is nothing new. It’s as old as civilization. And fighting the distribution of illegal drugs in the U.S. is nothing new. We have fought South American drug lords and Mexican Drug Cartels. We even had a real live shoot out that started the Miami Drug War in a Dade county mall in 1979. Those wars were waged between people from other countries to protect the citizens of our country. But, we’ve never had to fight such an intense and powerful, money motivated American drug lord.

Addiction Is Not A Moral Weakness

With addiction being woven into the human condition, it helps to look a little more closely at it since it is now so common. According to an opinion piece at thehill.com by Mitchell S. Rosenthal, M.D. the founder and president of the Rosenthal Center for Addiction Studies, “Addiction is an unexpected trap. It often begins innocently enough—with prescription painkillers after a back operation, perhaps, or a line of coke snorted for fun at a party. External factors – poverty and social misery, personal hardships and peer pressure to conform – can influence the desire to experiment with powerful, mind-altering and physically harmful substances. Nobody is immune, as we have seen the opioid crisis ensnare young and old, rich and poor, urban and rural residents and people of all races and ethnicities.”

Dr. Rosenthal, who has more than 50 years of experience treating substance abuse says, “What I know is that addiction is not a moral failing.” This is a point that in my opinion needs to be repeated continuously. Dr. Rosenthal explains the addiction process, “It happens when the morphine molecule—the essential component of all opiates—or other drug initiates a chemical process that rewires the neural networks in the brain and renders the user a partial captive of the drug.” This makes it clear that anyone is susceptible to becoming addicted to highly addictive opioids. He goes on to add, “We have the tools and resources – through education, prevention, law enforcement, and most importantly treatment – and the awareness to help those with substance-abuse disorder. But in order to be successful we must commit to a coherent, compassionate and well-funded national anti-drug strategy on a scale equivalent to the enormity of the drug problem itself.”

Politicians Motivated To Keep The War Waging

So far the enormity of the problem has not outgrown the profit potential. With individual companies within the pharmaceutical industry spending millions ($194.3 million as of 10/24/2018) lobbying to influence politicians to favor their industries, it’s easy to see that we are in a war between greed and good will. There really doesn’t seem to be any doubt at the moment about who’s going to win. Clearly, greed is winning out over the true care of our citizens.

While there may be little to be cheerful about this holiday season for hundreds of thousands of American families who have already been devastated and likely destroyed by this war at the very least we can wish these families some momentary peace and good will.

Thoughts Of Peace And Kindness

Even though for many this holiday season there will be sorrow and dismay I pray that they will find a quiet moment to reflect on the sanctity of life. Let’s all find that quiet moment this holiday season and pray for all those who suffer. Sometimes good thoughts for those who you don’t know helps those who need it the most. Be kind to one another and yourself.

National Opioid Crisis Expert, Dynamic Speaker And Author, Dr. John Rosa Writes About How Unhappy The Holidays Must Be For Those Families Affected By Opioids

opioid crisis

Dr. John P. Rosa, opioid crisis expert, author and dynamic speaker, recognizes the efforts of the families who have suffered the loss of loved ones to opioids and acknowledges that holidays will never be as bright for these families.

ROCKVILLE, MD. December 20, 2019: Dr. John Rosa, dynamic speaker, national opioid crises expert, and co-author of The Recipe for Success with Jack Canfield, posted a new blog on his website entitled, “Unhappy Holiday For 400,000 Families Who Had A Member Die Of Opioid Overdose,” in which Dr. Rosa makes a holiday wish for all those who suffer.

Dr. Rosa states, “Every year there are more families whose lives are adversely affected by opioids.” He continues adding, “Loved ones who have died from overdoses or loved ones who are addicted to them do not make any holiday season bright and cheerful. The sad fact is that more than 400,000 people have died as a result of the opioid epidemic and more than 2.6 millions Americans are currently addicted.”

“To the friends, families and loved ones of those who have died or are addicted,” writes Dr. Rosa, “my heart goes out to you even more during the holiday season. I can’t truly imagine how heartbreaking it must be to have lost a child or a spouse or a parent so needlessly.”

Dr. Rosa goes on to add, “To all of those who suffer, I am continuously working to help rein in the suffering associated with this man-made epidemic. I am tireless in my efforts to promote pill-free methods for controlling pain after surgeries and accidents. I am consistent in helping to bring awareness to the fact that those who become addicted are not morally weak or inept in any way shape or form.”

Read the entire blog at http://glt.kji.mybluehost.me/unhappy-holiday-for-400000-families-who-had-a-member-die-of-opioid-overdose/

About Dr. John P. Rosa

Dr. Rosa is the Owner/manager of 14 health clinics in the Baltimore/Washington DC metro areas concentrating on musculoskeletal injuries of acute, subacute and chronic nature. He oversees the Integrative Medicine practice group which includes general medicine, Chiropractic, physical therapy, acupuncture and behavioral medicine that sees over 60,000 patient visits per year.

Active in sports medicine with consulting/treating college, professional and Olympic athletes. Creator of 24/7 RnR (Relief and aiding Recovery) an FDA approved analgesic cream. Founder of Accessible Wellness Solutions – an onsite corporate wellness program offering consulting, lectures and clinic management.

Leader in Chiropractic

Trustee of New York Chiropractic College for over 15 years and serving final 3-year term as Chairman of the Board.

Opioid Crisis Expert:

  • White House Surrogate/Consultant
  • Law Enforcement Consultant (Homeland Security, CBP, DOJ, DEA and Postal)
  • State and National Consultant to Opioid Task Forces
  • Corporate and professional organization consultant
  • Currently forming the Opioid Abuse Prevention Institute

Integrative Medicine Specialist:

  • Board service to Maryland University of Integrative Health
  • Consultant on Integrative Medicine to hospital cancer center
  • Reduced opioid prescriptions by 70% by integrating Chiropractic, physical therapy and behavioral medicine in a primary care setting
  • Expert/Speaker – educating primary care, urgent care and hospital medical staff on the Integrative Medicine approach to treating pain patients

Unhappy Holiday For 400,000 Families Who Had A Member Die Of Opioid Overdose

By Dr. John Rosa

opioid overdose

Every year there are more families whose lives are adversely affected by opioids.

Loved ones who have died from overdoses or loved ones who are addicted to them do not make any holiday season bright and cheerful. The sad fact is that more than 400,000 people have died as a result of the opioid epidemic and more than 2.6 millions Americans are currently addicted.

To the friends, families and loved ones of those who have died or are addicted, my heart goes out to you even more during the holiday season. I can’t truly imagine how heartbreaking it must be to have lost a child or a spouse or a parent so needlessly.

To all of those who suffer, I am continuously working to help rein in the suffering associated with this man-made epidemic. I am tireless in my efforts to promote pill-free methods for controlling pain after surgeries and accidents. I am consistent in helping to bring awareness to the fact that those who become addicted are not morally weak or inept in any way shape or form.

I admire those families who’ve lost loved ones who stand up and are tireless in their efforts to bring those responsible for creating and irresponsibly marketing and distributing the deadly opioid drugs to justice. I recognize how often their efforts can seem futile especially fighting those who’ve made billions of dollars on the death and destruction of unsuspecting and innocent people.

A Holiday Wish

My wish for all of you this holiday season is that you continue to stay strong, to let your love for the one(s) you’ve lost lead you forward. And perhaps your experience can help someone else say no to a doctor that prescribes opioids for pain relief. Perhaps your experience will inspire someone to seek out alternative, healthy methods to pain relief.

Let’s all find a quiet moment this holiday season and pray for all those who suffer. Sometimes good thoughts for those you don’t know helps those who need it the most. Be kind to one another and yourself.