The nation overall and our state of Maine are experiencing a scourge that is destroying individuals and families at an alarming rate. Unfortunately, the death rate over these drugs is on the increase in Maine at an accelerating rate. In 1999, the death rate in the U S was 6.1 per 100,000 but has now increased to 19.7 per 100,000 this past year. In Maine from 2012 through 2014, the death rate was 14 per 100,000 but increased to 21 per 100,000 in 2015 and is still increasing. Our midcoast area is unfortunately one of the worst areas in the state. In the 2012-2014 period, Knox County lead the state in the rate of most heroin arrests, most pharmaceutical arrests, and the most drug offense arrests by state, county, and local law enforcement officials per 10,000 residents.

Larger communities have their problems as well, particularly Portland, but not to the extent that we have in the midcoast. Fortunately, the inland counties are the least affected but all still have a problem. As the overall problem continues to grow it is essential that a significant reduction needs to occur. But how is the question?

It is my belief that there are three elements that must be intertwined to stop this nightmare. First, the drug manufactures must be reigned in by stricter laws requiring better information regarding the addictive properties of these opiates. When a drug company does not adhere to this policy, the state and individuals should be able to take appropriate legal action to accomplish this.

According to a recent paper published by economic professors at Princeton University, doctors who graduated from the top tier medical schools had the lowest rate of prescribing these addictive drugs, while the lowest level of medical school graduates prescribed these same addictive drugs at a rate 3 times higher. It is apparent that a strict review program should be established to protect our citizens from this pathetic process.

Finally, I believe that a major cause of this horrific problem is that far too many individuals lack any significant purpose in their lives beyond having a “good time” or doing “something cool”. I ask you to take a moment and think of those you are associated with, whether they be family, friends or just acquaintances, do they have a useful purpose in their lives? Do you? There is no question in my mind that Almighty God has a purpose for each of us. It is up to each of us to open our heart and soul to Him and ask for guidance instead of plodding forward without any idea where we are going or what we are trying to accomplish. The state of Maine is one of the least churched states in our country. Without participation and commitment in this regard I believe we will continue to spiral down a destructive and dismal path.

If all three elements that I propose are implemented, I am convinced we will throttle this nightmare and stop this downward spiral. What is your opinion?

Another View, a Maine Press Association award-winning column, is written on a rotating basis by a member of a group of Midcoast citizens that meet to discuss issues they think are of public interest.