When it comes to substance abuse, Alaska is at the top of the pack. The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration lists the state as the one with the highest rate of drug use in the United States. Its location is one factor that contributes to this, but each drug experience is just as unique as the person that has the substance abuse problem.
Substance abuse, unfortunately, can start with children as young as 12. The Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration, or SAMSA, has determined that Alaska has the highest rate of illegal drug use as compared to several states like Vermont, Colorado and others. This is the third year in a row that Alaska has held this not so prestigious title.
In Alaska, high school students are the ones that are trying the drugs and on the fast track to drug and alcohol treatment and recovery centers. The drugs that are most widely used in state are inhalants and marijuana. Heavy, binge drinking and alcohol consumption also rated high on the list. Not to be mistake, substance abuse in Alaska also does include cocaine, crack, and even steroids.
In 1973, a study was performed that brought back frightening results. School age children, starting in the 6th grade were part of a 36 percent result that claimed they had used one or more drugs other than cigarettes or alcohol. Substance abuse in Alaska is one that involves more than one drug being used at a time. These young teens are combining alcohol and one or more other illicit drugs.
Alaska’s location has made it a hot spot for drug trafficking. It also has seen its fair share of alcoholism, money laundering, rape, and violence leading to suicidal consequences. Marijuana is the easiest and most available drug in Alaska, therefore the most abused. Prescription medications, like Oxycontin and methamphetamines are also at the top of the substance abuse list.
Drug rehabs as well as alcohol rehabs are readily available to those who abuse drugs and their families. Any one involved in your life does suffer when you become a substance abuser. Right now in Alaska, insurance providers are not obligated by law to treat those suffering from substance abuse and mental health issues. For residents with these health concerns a variety of options do exist.
Drug and alcohol programs in different areas in Alaska offer those suffering a chance to get better without breaking the bank. Low cost and non-profit drug and alcohol treatment and recovery centers do exist. The state of Alaska also offers state funded drug and alcohol programs. Centers have one main objective and that is to get people off drugs and keep them off of drugs. Inpatient and outpatient are both available and programs that wish to help without furthering your addictions with medication are also on your side.
If you or a close friend or family member is suffering from substance abuse get them help today. A phone call could be the thing that saves their life.
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