Alabama has had a state-wide alcohol problem since most of us can remember, but that has decreased in the past few years. Unfortunately, another problem is rearing its head, especially among teenagers. The state’s location along the coast of the Gulf of Mexico means that illegal drugs are never in short supply. They are brought in from the Caribbean and Mexico, and a lot of the cargo is sold and used in Alabama. Alabama’s drug and alcohol rehab centers tell us that admissions for marijuana addiction now outnumber those for alcoholism by nearly 2-1.

The DEA also reports a heavier presence of so-called “club drugs” like Ecstasy, cocaine, LSD and ketamine, especially where young people get together- places like colleges, nightclubs, and parties. Prescription drug abuse is very prevalent among Alabama’s youth also. Another drug that’s greatly affecting the people of the state of Alabama is methamphetamine (crystal meth), which is known for its harmful effects on the body and its extremely addictive nature.

Drug and alcohol abuse treatment in Alabama is offered by almost 140 (as of 2006, the last year for which data is present) treatment, detox, and rehabilitation centers. Alabama’s people can either go to one of over one hundred private treatment centers, or one of the publicly run centers operated by the state and local government. The public nature of many of these treatment facilities makes it a lot easier for people to get the help they need, but not all centers are created equal. Different places will offer different kinds of care, so you may have to visit a few centers to find the one you need.

Most of Alabama’s alcohol and drug rehabilitation programs are run on an outpatient basis. This is the least expensive option for many patients, but some may need more in-depth care. There are almost 40 residential treatment centers in Alabama, offering round-the-clock care for those who have the most severe addictions. However, there are less than twenty places to get help for an addiction to an opiate like heroin, morphine, or Oxycontin.

Anyone in Alabama who needs treatment for a drug or alcohol addiction should be aware of all of their options. They need to know what kind of treatment is available in their area, and what kind of approach these places take. A good, comprehensive program will focus equally on detoxification, counseling, and aftercare. Behavior modification, ongoing support, and positive reinforcement are essential to treating an addiction. For someone to truly be able to rise above addiction, they not only need the support of friends and family, they also need a high level of commitment and a strong desire to quit.

If you or someone you love is dealing with a drug or an alcohol problem, there is help available in Alabama. Don’t be afraid to ask for help, because there are plenty of publicly-run drug and alcohol treatment centers that will be able to give you the evaluation, help, and treatment you need.

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