Drug abuse in the United States is a significant issue. The National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) is an annual report issued by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). It shows that while drug abuse is a national problem and it is clear that substance use disorders (SUDs) do not discriminate, some areas are faring worse than others. According to this report, drug use has been increasing across the country.
Substance abuse can have wide-reaching effects on individuals and their families, leading to dependency, health problems, and financial difficulties. However, substance abuse treatment is available through various programs and facilities specializing in SUD recovery services—such as counseling and medication-assisted treatment (MAT). Those struggling with drug dependency can find hope for a better future with proper help and support from family members, loved ones, and medical professionals. Call 833.551.2304 to speak with someone from the caring and compassionate team at Gulf Breeze Recovery in Florida about drug abuse in the United States, states with the highest drug abuse statistics, and how we can help our clients and their families overcome SUDs and their widespread effects.
Which States Have the Highest Drug Abuse Statistics?
The Federal Government has already spent over $10 billion on fighting the drug problem in the nation. The money has gone towards more SUD treatment centers, drug and alcohol education, and programs to prevent drug and alcohol abuse before it starts. However, many people wonder what areas in the country have the worse drug abuse statistics and which ones need the most help.
Research on drug abuse in the United States reveals that drug use is becoming increasingly common nationwide. This research shows which states have the highest drug abuse statistics, including:
- West Virginia
- Ohio
- Pennsylvania
- Massachusetts
In addition to these states, drug use is becoming increasingly problematic in rural areas, where access to drug treatment programs is limited. It’s vital for those struggling with drug dependency to have access to proper help and support from family members, loved ones, medical professionals, and drug treatment programs.
How Can the US Overcome Drug Abuse and Dependency?
Perhaps more important than specific areas of abuse is how the country’s different regions are doing. For instance, the Western part of the country has the highest rates of illegal drug use, while the Northeastern part has the highest rate of binge alcohol drinking.
Interestingly, the western United States still has more people struggling with alcohol use disorder who report chronic abuse. So this might indicate that the western United States needs much attention regarding drug and alcohol abuse. In contrast, the northeastern part of the country needs to be educated on the dangers of binge drinking and what classifies as binge drinking. Educating teenagers and young adults that binge drinking is the consumption of a large amount of alcohol in a short amount of time is the definition of binge drinking may dissuade them from this behavior.
Drug overdoses have also become a severe epidemic in the United States. According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), drug overdose deaths are at an all-time high in the U.S., with drug overdoses leading to more deaths than car accidents or gun violence. Drug abuse in the United States must be addressed to prevent deaths like this. Drug treatment programs and increased drug education need to be made available for those affected by drug dependency so that they can take steps toward recovery.
Find Drug Abuse Treatment in Florida at Gulf Breeze Recovery
Although Florida statistics on drug abuse, dependency, and overdose deaths are lower than the national average, drug prevalence is still a problem. Gulf Breeze Recovery is here to help those needing drug and alcohol use disorder treatment. Our caring and compassionate team is committed to providing comprehensive drug treatment programs tailored to meet individual needs and support for clients and families struggling with drug abuse. Contact Gulf Breeze Recovery today at 833.551.2304 to learn more.
