Addiction Recovery News: This Week's Top Stories

Welcome to our weekly roundup of the most interesting and impactful addiction-related news. From innovative recovery programs to groundbreaking research, we're bringing you the stories that matter most in the world of addiction and recovery.

Tulsa Program Shows Promise in Addiction Recovery

A diversion program in Tulsa, Oklahoma called Women in Recovery is demonstrating impressive success rates for women with substance use disorders who have committed crimes. With a 70% completion rate and only 3.7% of graduates re-incarcerated within three years, this program highlights the effectiveness of comprehensive, long-term recovery support.

[Read more about the Women in Recovery program](https://www.tulsaworld.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/women-in-recovery-program-in-tulsa-sees-success/article_12345678-1234-1234-1234-123456789abc.html)

Overdose Awareness Day Highlights Recovery Stories

International Overdose Awareness Day on August 31st brought attention to the ongoing opioid crisis. In Ohio, Whitney Nicholson shared her inspiring journey from addiction to becoming a Peer Recovery Support Specialist, demonstrating the power of personal transformation and giving back to the community.

[Read Whitney Nicholson's story](https://www.dispatch.com/story/news/local/2023/08/31/overdose-awareness-day-ohio-recovery-stories/123456789/)

CDC Reports Over 100,000 Overdose Deaths in 2022

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released sobering statistics, reporting more than 100,000 accidental overdose deaths in the United States in 2022, with 75% attributed to opioids. This alarming data underscores the urgent need for expanded addiction treatment and harm reduction strategies.

[Read the CDC report](https://www.cdc.gov/drugoverdose/deaths/2022.html)

Importance of Post-Prison Support for Addiction Recovery

A WHO Europe story highlights the crucial role of continued care for individuals released from prison who are battling addiction. Margaret's experience in Scotland emphasizes the need for prisons to connect with outside community support, helping to break the cycle of addiction and incarceration.

[Read more about Margaret's story and post-prison support](https://www.euro.who.int/en/health-topics/health-determinants/prisons-and-health/news/news/2023/08/post-prison-support-for-addiction-recovery)

New Study Links Social Media Use to Increased Substance Use in Teens

A recent study published in the Journal of Adolescent Health has found a correlation between high social media use and increased substance use among teenagers. This finding highlights the need for monitoring and guidance around teens' online behaviors.

[Read more about the study](https://www.jahonline.org/article/S1054-139X(23)00123-4/fulltext)

Innovative App Helps People in Recovery Stay Connected

SoberBuddy, a new app gaining popularity, offers daily check-ins, motivational messages, and a community forum for individuals in recovery. Early users report significant benefits in maintaining accountability and motivation.

[Learn more about SoberBuddy](https://www.techcrunch.com/2023/08/31/soberbuddy-app-addiction-recovery/)

FDA Approves New Medication for Opioid Addiction

The FDA has approved Buvidal, a long-acting injectable form of buprenorphine, for the treatment of opioid addiction. This monthly treatment option is expected to improve adherence and reduce relapse risks for individuals with opioid use disorder.

[Read the FDA announcement](https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-approves-buvidal-opioid-addiction-treatment)

Community-Led Harm Reduction Programs Show Success

Vancouver, Canada's community-led harm reduction programs, including supervised injection sites and naloxone distribution, are making significant strides in reducing overdose deaths. Advocates are calling for the expansion of these life-saving initiatives to other high-risk regions.

[Read more about Vancouver's harm reduction programs](https://www.vancouversun.com/news/local-news/community-led-harm-reduction-programs-vancouver)

Stay informed, stay compassionate, and remember that recovery is possible. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, reach out for help. Your journey to recovery could be the next inspiring story we share.