The phrase "heroin crisis" refers to a severe problem or a difficult situation caused by the widespread use and addiction to the drug called heroin. Full definition
In Vermont, Gov. Peter Shumlin devoted his entire State of the State address to the «full - blown heroin crisis» gripping his small state. (nystateofpolitics.com)
However, the modern heroin crisis has so far neither triggered the kind of violent crime increases nor the public panic that crack did 30 years ago — nor has government responded with the same kind of punitive measures. (observer.com)
Medicalizing the heroin crisis may not stigmatize him, but it belittles him. (firstthings.com)