October is National Substance Abuse Prevention Month, where we acknowledge the impact of substance use and honor individuals who have lost their lives to substance abuse, those who are in recovery, and the friends and family who support them.
October is National Substance Abuse Prevention Month, where we acknowledge the impact of substance use and honor individuals who have lost their lives to substance abuse, those who are in recovery, and the friends and family who support them.
Substance use is the harmful or hazardous use of psychoactive substances, including illicit drugs, and misused prescription drugs. It also includes binge drinking.
Did you know, 9 out of 10 people who abuse or are addicted to nicotine, alcohol, or other drugs began using before they were 18 years old? Those individuals who began substances before 15 years of age are seven times more likely to develop an addiction.
Binge drinking is having five or more drinks on one occasion (for males) and four or more drinks on one occasion (females) within the past 30 days.
Did you know that in Douglas County, 15.8% of adults report binge drinking in the past 30 days and 13.5% of high school students had 5 or more drinks within a couple of hours on one or more days in the last 30 days?
It’s okay to ask for help!
No matter your age or your struggle, help is available. Find a treatment facility near you at FindTreatment.gov or call 800-662-HELP (4357). This national helpline is free, confidential, and available 24/7.
If you are struggling with opioid addiction (heroin or pain relievers), you can:
In 2023, Douglas County Health Department will begin providing substance abuse services. In the meantime, please visit these resources from Tri-County Health: