While an addiction to opioid medication often begins with a visit to a doctor, it can lead to an unassuming addict down a slippery slope into illegal drug use.

“I believe prescription pills and benzos are the gateways to any drug,” said Nancy McGouyrk, the housemother at the House of Love and Mercy, a recovery facility in Tallassee. “So many girls come here who got started with pills because they are so easy to get.”