When someone visits a doctor because of an injury and walks away with a prescription for pain relief medication, that small piece of paper could lead to a serious addiction. For readers looking for the lowdown on opioids, this book delivers the facts, including how opioids affect the brain and why something as innocent as a painkiller can lead to a heroin addiction. This practical guide includes tips for coping with pain without resorting to opioids, and resources for those who are facing opioid addiction. Readers will also learn about the history of opioids and what led to the national opioid crisis.