Drug addiction and abuse in Massachusetts are problematic just like all the other states across the country. The Massachusetts Department of Public Health, Bureau of Substance Addiction Services reported that 80,896 people received treatment services in 2017, and 109,002 were admitted to treatment. According to their statewide substance abuse trends:
The primary substance of use or primary drug in the state is heroin. The percentage of heroin use reported went from 37.3 % in 2008 to 52.8% in 2017. The second highest substance use reported was alcohol. The percentage of alcohol use reported went from 40.9% in 2008 to 32.8% in 2017. The third highest substance of use was crack/cocaine, and its percentage went from 7.5% in 2008 to 4.1% in 2017. Other substances of use reported were other opioids, followed by marijuana, and then sedative-hypnotics. All substances of use reported except for heroin have declined over the 9 years. The largest percentage of people receiving treatment services in Massachusetts are single white, non-Hispanic males between the ages of 31 and 40. (MAGov)
Opioid addiction is a national crisis, and it is twice as bad in Massachusetts. Opioid-related deaths continue to rise nationally, and the opioid-related death rate in Massachusetts is more than twice the national rate. Also, the opioid-related death rate has almost tripled in just four years from 691 deaths in 2012 to 1,990 deaths in 2016 in the state. One of the causes of this spike is due to illicit fentanyl being more common in Massachusetts. There is also a regional effect here. Most of the New England states all have a high death rate related to opioids. Also, there are key Northeast drug trafficking routes that run through Massachusetts.
The STEP Act and Addiction Treatment
Massachusetts has implemented a law called the STEP Act which places a limit on any opiate prescriptions that are written to no more than a 72-hour dosage. This helps to reduce the flow of excess, unused prescriptions into the illegal drug market. Massachusetts also requires anyone that is admitted to the emergency room for an opioid-related overdose to obtain a substance abuse evaluation from a mental health professional before they are discharged. Individuals with addiction issues can indicate that they are in recovery or struggle with addiction and should not be prescribed opiates as well. The STEP Act also covers potential abuse in Massachusetts schools. Public schools in Massachusetts are now required to verbally screen students to determine if they are at risk or have a substance addiction.
More About Inpatient Drug Rehab in Massachusetts
Massachusetts has a lot of different inpatient rehab centers available. Many people with addiction issues will also need mental health services. Several treatment facilities in Massachusetts offer dual diagnosis treatment (mental health and addiction treatment). Medication-Assisted Treatment is another option offered at some of the inpatient rehab centers across the state. Also, sometimes it’s best for the person that is seeking treatment to go to a different city or even state, from where they were in active addiction, to recover. No matter what, treatment should always be individualized for each person to determine their particular needs.
Find Treatment for Addiction in Massachusetts
If you or someone you love is struggling with an addiction, our addiction specialists are available around the clock to assist you. Evoke Wellness at Cohasset offers evidence-based treatment programs to cater to the individual needs of each patient. Our solution-focused addiction treatment will lead you on a road to long-lasting recovery. You don’t have to suffer any longer, call us today and let us help you.
