Why is this important?
Substance abuse and addiction is a nationwide problem. Research
shows that addiction is a chronic psychological and physiological
condition that can positively respond to treatment. Substance use
can begin in adolescents or earlier. Many young people who begin
using substances early have a much harder time as adults. Some will
develop an addiction that can significantly impact their lives,
their family and the community.
What is the measure?
We measure the number of clients in treatment and their drug of
choice to obtain important information about the use of drugs in
our community. We also use the annual state survey reporting alcohol
and drug abuse by students in selected grades.
How are we doing?
The number of residents seen for alcohol and drug outpatient services
remained approximately the same for the last three years.
Over the last decade the reported drug of choice in people seeking
treatment changed from alcohol to methamphetamines. One reason for
this trend is the increased focus on working with people seeking
treatment who have broken the law due to drugs.
Survey results show that 11th grade students report about the
same rate of use of most specific substances as the state. We have
a higher rate of students who report using alcohol and other illegal
drugs than the state average.
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