The Leaf Chronicle, headquartered in Clarksville, TN, is the oldest newspaper in the state, and is well known for its hard-hitting journalism and emphasis on local events. Lately, that’s meant many stories involving the use and abuse of drugs and alcohol. It’s become almost routine for readers to see stories involving drug busts, drunk driving or drug-related crimes happening in their community, and it can make some people feel as though they’re living in the midst of an epidemic.
Thankfully, there are resources that can help. Treatment programs have been proven effective in the fight against drugs, although some people might need to leave Clarksville in order to get the assistance they need.
Why Do People Use Drugs?
Substance abuse isn’t limited to the Clarksville area. In fact, it’s common throughout the United States, as the National Institute on Drug Abuse suggests that about 8.7 percent of the American population has used an illicit drug at least once in the past month. Many more likely drank too much alcohol. Anyone who behaves in this way might quickly get into trouble with the law, and merit a writeup in the local paper.
It’s hard to know why people might dabble in addictive substances, and it’s likely that the reasons vary dramatically from person to person. But common triggers include:
- Mental health conditions. Some people turn to drugs to help them cope with anxiety, depression or personality disorders.
- Genetics. Some substances are more rewarding to people who have specific genetic markers involving drugs and alcohol.
- Habit. Growing up in a house in which substance abuse is common might make people more likely to use substances when they’re adults.
- Peers. Living with someone who abuses drugs and alcohol, or working in an industry in which substance abuse is common, might make an addiction more likely.
How to Make It Stop
People who do begin to use and abuse drugs may find it hard to curb their behaviors without help. These substances can leave chemical damage behind, and a brain that’s been constantly exposed to drugs might be amended in such a way that it only functions at an optimal level when drugs are present. People might not be able to control their use and stop when they want to do so, unless they get help from an expert.
In a treatment program, people have access to experts who can help them to understand their triggers for substance use and abuse, and they can learn how to manage their stress and distress without leaning on drugs. People who take drugs due to anxiety, for example, might learn how to meditate when feelings of nervousness arise. Those with depression, on the other hand, might learn how to find joy in daily life, so feelings of sadness aren’t so prevalent.
This is the kind of help we provide at The Oaks at La Paloma, and we’re located in nearby Memphis, Tennessee. We can offer you inpatient care, allowing you to escape from your troubles on a permanent basis while you work on your addiction, or we can provide outpatient care, so you can continue to live in Clarksville as you heal. Whatever treatment works best for you is the treatment we’ll provide. Please call us to start the enrollment process.