Tennessee may have gotten its notoriety for its moonshine, but surprisingly it has a low rate of alcohol abuse when compared with some other states. Tennessee consistently ranks below the national average for alcoholism, but it ranks well above average for drug abuse. This is due to the rapid growth of methamphetamine use, and the prevalence of marijuana growing operations in the state.

Tennessee has the dubious distinction of being near the top of the states for the misuse of prescription drugs. If you look at the chart below, you’ll see a breakdown of admissions to Tennessee’s drug and alcohol treatment centers by substance used. Morphine, Vicodin and other drugs are widely abused in the state, either on purpose or by people who unintentionally develop an addiction after taking the medication for a legitimate reason. Almost fourteen percent of Tennessee’s treatment center admissions were for opiates other than heroin.

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Issues At-A-Glance, Tennessee

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), December 2008

Over eleven thousand people got treatment for drug and alcohol problems in Tennessee in 2006, the last data year. The treatment was given by the state’s 195 rehab centers, and 182 of those were privately owned. There are also thirteen state-owned facilities. Don’t let the word “private” fool you into thinking they are inaccessible- “private” refers to the ownership, not the clientele. Over sixty percent of Tennessee’s drug and alcohol treatment facilities are publicly funded, and most people seeking help in the state will end up going to one of those “private” centers.

As is the case everywhere, not all of Tennessee’s treatment centers are the same. Every one approaches treatment a little differently, and may offer different services. Most people get outpatient help, and almost ninety percent of facilities were run on an outpatient basis. Those that have stronger addictions may need treatment in one of Tennessee’s 54 residential drug and alcohol treatment centers, which help them get sober by taking them out of a negative environment.

Most of the state’s rehab centers focus on detox, counseling and behavioral therapy. But, those with opiate addictions need additional support. There are seven facilities in Tennessee with opiate programs, and twenty four were allowed to prescribe buprenorphine, a drug used to dampen drug cravings and minimize painful withdrawal symptoms. Those looking for opiate treatment in Tennessee may have to go a little further to get help.

Regardless of what you’re addicted to, you should speak with your doctor before going into a program. Your doctor will evaluate you and recommend the proper treatment. Some addictions can be hard to break, but with counseling, detox, and behavioral therapy, you can live a healthy and drug-free life. You may have to go a little out of area to find treatment, but don’t let distance keep you from getting the help you need.

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