Drug addiction is a serious problem affecting many people in Texas. Addiction is a chronic condition that requires professional treatment to help a person recover and achieve long-term sobriety. Drug addiction treatment in Texas is important for a number of reasons, including:
- High rates of drug abuse
Texas has one of the highest drug abuse rates in the nation. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), Texas had the second highest number of drug overdose deaths in the United States in 2019. The state also has a high rate of youth drug use, with 9.7 percent of Texas high school students reporting illegal drug use in the past month, according to the Texas Department of Health Services.
- Adverse effects on individuals and communities
Drug addiction can have devastating effects on individuals, families and communities. Substance abuse can lead to health problems such as heart disease, stroke and liver damage. It can also lead to mental health problems, such as depression and anxiety, and problems in relationships, employment and finances. Addiction can also lead to criminal activity, which can put individuals at risk of arrest and imprisonment.
Drug addiction can also have negative effects on the community. This can lead to an increase in crime, including drug-related crimes such as theft and drug trafficking. It can also lead to increased health care costs, as addicts often require medical care for health-related problems.
- Inaccessible to treatment
Despite the high rate of drug addiction in Texas, many people do not have access to drug addiction treatment. According to the Texas Department of Health Services, only 10 percent of people who need addiction treatment receive it. This is due to a number of factors, including the lack of available treatment facilities and lack of insurance coverage for addiction treatment.
- Risk of overdose
Drug addiction increases the risk of overdose, which can be fatal. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, there were 3,064 drug overdose deaths in Texas in 2019. This is an increase from previous years, highlighting the need for effective drug addiction treatment to prevent overdose deaths.
- Increased risk of mental health problems
Drug addiction can also lead to mental health problems such as depression and anxiety. The risk of suicide also increases in drug addicts. Effective addiction treatment can help address these mental health problems and reduce the risk of suicide.
- Economic impact
Drug addiction can also have a major impact on the economy. According to a report by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission, the total economic burden of drug use in Texas in 2019 was estimated at $19.5 billion. This includes costs related to health care, criminal justice and lost productivity.
Types of addiction treatment
There are several types of drug addiction treatment available in Texas, including:
- Hospital admission
Inpatient treatment involves staying in a residential facility for a period of time while receiving addiction treatment. This type of treatment is recommended for people with serious addictions who require intensive care.
- Outpatient treatment
Outpatient treatment includes attending addiction treatment classes at home. This type of treatment is recommended for individuals with moderate levels of addiction who are able to maintain daily responsibilities.
- Drug Assisted Therapy
Medication-assisted treatment involves the use of medications, such as methadone or buprenorphine, to help a person manage withdrawal symptoms and cravings. This type of treatment is recommended for opioid addicts.
- Behavior therapy
Behavioral therapy involves working with a therapist to identify and address the underlying causes of addiction. This treatment is recommended for individuals suffering from addiction and mental health issues.
Conclusion
Drug addiction treatment in Texas is necessary to address high rates of drug use, negative impacts on individuals and communities, lack of access to treatment, increased risk of drug overdoses and mental health problems, and significant economic impacts. Many types of treatment are available, including inpatient treatment, outpatient treatment, medication-assisted treatment, and behavioral therapy.
