Metro Detroit has a higher percentage of illicit drug users than Michigan and the United States as a whole. While this may be a disheartening statistic, the fact is that there are resources available to help drug users overcome their addictions and improve their lives altogether. Here at Perspectives Of Troy Counseling Centers, we have helped countless patients fight through substance abuse and enjoy an addiction-free life. Read on to learn how you can get help for illicit drug use in the Detroit metro.
What Are “Illicit Drugs”?
Illicit drugs are those that are illegal to use, sell, or make. Some of the most common illicit drugs in the United States include:
- Cocaine
- Opiates
- Hallucinogens
- Cannabis (Marijuana)
- Amphetamines
- Heroin
- Ecstasy
- Steroids
The regulations regarding these drugs vary by state and by county, so they may not be considered “illicit” everywhere. For instance, if you have a prescription for medical marijuana, it is not considered an illicit drug if you only use it for your medical treatment.
Illicit Drug Use Statistics In Metro Detroit
How prevalent is illicit drug use in Metro Detroit? According to data from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, approximately 630,000 people over the age of 12 use illicit drugs every year. This comes out to 16.6% of the Detroit-Warren-Livonia population over 12 years of age. By comparison, the average for Michigan is 16.1%, and the national average is 14.7%.
Breaking the numbers down further, 12.8% of the Detroit metro population uses marijuana, compared to 12.2% of Michigan residents and 10.7% of U.S. residents. For prescription pain relievers, 5.5% of Metro Detroit residents report use without a prescription, compared to 4.9% of people across the nation.
Treatments For Illicit Drug Addiction And Substance Abuse
If you believe you are addicted to illicit drugs, there are several steps you can take to overcome your addiction and get back to a normal life. One of the most effective treatment options is to undergo addiction counseling, where you work with a professional counselor to identify the cause of your addiction and learn how to fight cravings naturally.
Depending on the severity of your addiction, you may need to visit a rehabilitation center get the drugs out of your system, and overcome any withdrawals that may result from that experience. You can follow up with an addiction counselor or therapist to continue treatment afterward so you do not fall back into unhealthy habits.
Recognizing the existence of a problem is the first step in getting treatment for illicit drug use. Consider your current situation, and do what it takes to get your life back on a positive track. You’ve got this!