Alcohol, opioids, cannabis, crystal meth – these are just a few of the drugs that have continued to drive a major wedge into our country, in the fields of politics and public health. Although half of these drugs have been proven to be beneficial for patients suffering from debilitating conditions, all of these substances are responsible for some of the worst drug problems in our country. In fact, you could say the United States has a big hairy mess on its hands as a direct result of drugs. However, which areas of our nation suffer from this problem the most? Which regions are the definitive “addiction capitals” of the U.S.? Let’s take a closer look and find out.
Teen Drug Use
Ironically, the states that have reported the highest rate of drug use among teenagers are not the most “urban,” so to speak, and are off the beaten path. Overall, teen drug abuse and addiction are most common in Alaska, Maine, and Oregon, in contrast to Washington D.C.’s high rate of adult drug use. Isn’t it ironic?
Crippled American Cities
Based on a recent report from ABC News and a survey from the CDC, opioid use has increased by a staggering 54%, from July 2016 to September 2017, in metropolitan regions of our country. Some of the most severe problems include dealers’ decisions to cut heroin with fentanyl, a painkiller that is 50 to 100 times more powerful than morphine, especially in Ohio and Pennsylvania.
Chicago: Mexican Drug Cartels
Ironically, one Midwestern state is facing problems due to an external influence that has taken root in its capital. Since 2006, the U.S. and Mexico have teamed up to duke it out with drug cartels. However, with the rise in Hispanic populations across Chicago, Illinois, specifically in Little Village, drug use has skyrocketed. The DEA has even confirmed that Little Village is harboring members of the Sinaloa Drug Cartel.
Montana: Epic Proportions
Did you know that one of our most rural states is home to an explosive outbreak of addiction? In fact, Jennifer Owen, the Executive Director of Billings’ Head Start Program, explained that the sickness has become catastrophic. Even 3 and 4-year-olds are receiving treatment for substance use disorder.
Baltimore: Hungry for Heroin
Due to economic problems, Baltimore, Maryland has been suffering from overwhelming drug problems, particularly in poverty-stricken neighborhoods. The DEA confirms that the city is the home to the highest concentration of heroin users in the country.
Seeking Treatment for Drug Abuse or Addiction
Drug abuse and 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.
