Can Drug Rehab Efforts Let Up in Florida?

Did you know that nearly 10% of Florida's sixth graders binge drink? Did you know that percentage increases to 30% by the time the kids are in high school? Did you know that the prevalence of prescription drug abuse is so high that Florida is now nicknamed "the pill state"? Despite these figures, Florida's just released 2007 Youth Substance Abuse Survey results say that alcohol and drug abuse is on the decline. In light of all the other information we see in other surveys and in daily news articles about Florida's drug problem, that's hard to believe. Anyone who allows this report to make them think they can sit back and relax is sadly mistaken. Florida drug rehab centers will be busy for a long time to come.
According to official reports in 2007, here's what's happening in Florida.

10% of high school students used prescription drugs to get high

20% of young adults at college or work used drugs to get high

50% of 12th graders and about 30% of 8th graders had used inhalants to get high

And 20% smoked marijuana

If there have been improvements since that time, we can nevertheless be sure that drug rehab will certainly be in the future for many Florida kids and young adults.

When it comes to alcohol, you should know that those 6th graders who are binge drinking - which some experts define as five drinks at a time and others define as ten drinks at a time - are far more likely to turn into full blown alcoholics who need alcohol and drug rehab than kids who wait until they're older to take their first drink.

Binge drinking has also sent many people to the ER, and some to the morgue. Alcohol poisoning, the first symptom of which is vomiting as the body desperately tries to get rid of the poison, can cause confusion, seizures, difficulty breathing, dangerously low blood sugar, sleepiness, and unconsciousness. If you see someone vomiting or passed out after they drink too much, don't take it lightly. Get them to the ER. After that, get them to an alcohol or drug rehab program.

No matter what improvement has been made over the last year, Florida has a big alcohol and drug problem. And, as you can see, kids are starting young.

Educate your kids about the dangers of alcohol and drug abuse could prevent future abuse and addiction and the need for alcohol or drug rehab. First get familiar with the current drug scene and drugs so you will have some understanding of what your kids are up against and what drugs they're likely to be offered or hear about. Kids whose parents talk to them about alcohol and drugs are 50% less likely to use and abuse them.

If your kid already has a drug or alcohol problem - and if you think the problem is 'minor' you'd be best to look into it a little more closely - get them into an alcohol or drug rehab programbefore it goes any further. Alcohol and drug addiction and abuse have ruined many a life, including those of family members. Do something about it now, before it's too late.

Gloria MacTaggart is a freelance writer that contributes articles on health.
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