Anyone who has met a native German will definitely tell you how boisterous, fun-loving, and vigorous these men and women can be. Everything from the architecture to their lifestyles echoes big, bold, and loud, and tourists enjoy every moment of it. We here in the States have even incorporated Oktoberfest and German Christmas traditions into our cultures. However, beneath the strength and resilience of legend, Germans are also suffering from an increase in drug use, particularly over the past couple of years. Let’s take a closer look at what kind of problems this magnificent country is facing.
An Increase in Deaths
From 2012 to 2016, Germany experienced a nearly 41% increase in drug-related fatalities. Consider the fact that 944 residents died after consuming drugs in 2012, while 1,333 people lost their lives in 2016. Even more disturbing, research has confirmed that a majority of these fatalities were directly connected to heroin use. Ultimately, officials have speculated that this increase in deaths is related to police efforts to target refugees, which has diverted attention from national drug problems.
However, we are happy to tell you that, despite the fact that deaths have increased, this fatality rate is still much lower than it had been at the turn of the 2000s. From 2000 to 2012, the total deaths dropped nearly 50%, from 2,030 to 944.
Drug Use Is More Widespread
The Opium Law, established sometime around 1929, controlled all issues surrounding drug use in Germany and was followed by the Federal Narcotics Act of 1971. Since that time, though, drug use has widely dispersed across the country, and research has sadly shown that young people are more likely to experiment with illegal drugs than before. In fact, researchers have determined that 16% of German young adults ages 18 to 20 have used a hard drug.
Seeking Treatment for Drug Addiction or Alcoholism
Alcoholism or drug addiction are dangerous sicknesses that should never be taken lightly. All it takes to fall off the wagon and become sick is to take that first sniff, snort, injection, or shot before you are rolling downhill into insanity. Still, you can always push the train back up, but it will be a difficult hike. However, with the right mixture of perseverance and determination, you can easily get back on track and be happy once more.
Are you suffering from a severe case of alcoholism or drug addiction? Do you have a friend or a loved one who is coping with the same illness? In both cases, get in touch us at with Asana Recovery today. Our professional team of counselors and healthcare experts will help you endure the painful process of drug withdrawal and detox and guide you along the rocky road of rehabilitation. Soon enough, you will experience a faster and much more efficient recovery.
If you are seeking more information about our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs or enroll in one of these programs today, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your leisure and your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how you can overcome your mental illness and take an extra step toward becoming a healthier person.
