Louisiana’s Epidemic: Mental Health and Substance Use Disorders
For those living in the beautiful state of Louisiana, there’s a serious disease lurking that’s more prevalent than many realize. Substance use and mental health issues are considered at epidemic levels across the state, according to some surveys. While it’s possible to say that addiction is a concern across the country, there are specific concerns about the threats in our state.
At Victory Addiction Recovery Center, we’re at the forefront. Our addiction treatment programs in Lafayette, LA, and Metairie, LA, provide immediate support for those facing life-threatening conditions. Don’t wait to start your journey to health.
Studies Show Concerns About Rising Mental Health Disorders
The Louisiana Violence Experiences survey from 2023 data asked over 1000 people in the state about alcohol and drug use as well as their current mental health. The study found:
- 1 in 3 people in the state binge drink
- 1 in 8 people use illicit drugs
- 1 in 11 people suffer from severe anxiety or depression
- 1 in 11 people reported thoughts of suicide in the previous year
A significant number of people struggle with mental health disorders and don’t receive treatment. Mental health doesn’t just go away by having a good day. For many, access to the care they need can seem impossible.
Why People Struggle with Mental Health and Addiction in Louisiana?
Every person’s situation is different, and that’s a very important part of the recovery process. Each person needs an individualized treatment plan that helps them work through the challenges they face. Take a look at some of the most common reasons addiction and mental health disorders, a condition known as co-occurring disorders, can happen to those living in the state.
Military Service
Military vets are at a high risk for several reasons, and often a combination of factors:
- Injuries lead to the development of chronic pain, especially nerve-related damage. This can cause the onset of dependency on opioids, especially when a doctor prescribes opioids without using other strategies first.
- A lack of easy reintegration into civilian life after service can be challenging, resulting in mental health concerns over time.
- Loss of control combined with anxiety and uncertainty can trigger the onset of mental health complications. Many vets suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder and turn to substances to minimize symptoms.
Presence of High-Risk Substances
Another reason so many people in Louisiana suffer from co-occurring disorders is due to the direct access to substances. Data shows that fentanyl and methamphetamine access in Louisiana is one of the leading threats to residents.
Fentanyl is a highly addictive, very dangerous opioid. Very small doses can lead to overdose and the development of addiction. What’s very worrisome about this drug is that it’s permeated through the illicit drug supply throughout the state.
It’s often mixed with other drugs to entice substance use disorder development, hooking people. In 2023, the Louisiana Department of Health reported 13,937 people visited the local emergency room with drug poisoning involving opioids. About 1,130 opioid-related deaths occurred in 2023.
Methamphetamine is also a controlled substance. The state has a high usage and trafficking rate for meth, and that exposes people to long-term, highly addictive outcomes. Data shows that while opioids are the leading cause of fatal overdoses in the state, meth is the most significant threat in rural parishes specifically.
How to Treat Mental Health and Addiction in Louisiana
You may be one of the many people now facing addiction. Your mental health may seem to be out of your control. What can you do?
When you speak to our team at Victory Addiction Recovery Center, we’ll create a treatment plan designed to address your needs. Our home-like environment makes it possible for you to step away from the pain and limitations of daily life to allow your brain and body to heal. Treatment for co-occurring disorders, also known as dual diagnosis, often includes:
- Detox services to remove toxins from your body
- Residential treatment where you’ll work on mental health needs alongside addiction treatment through personal counseling and group therapy
- Outpatient care designed to consistently provide you with access to the support you need in even the most challenging of situations
The real world for many is that these substances and mental health are daily battles, challenges you have to take on through no fault of your own. As a disease, they require professional treatment in a controlled environment.
How We Can Help You Today
Victory is available 24/7 to answer your calls. If you or your loved one is facing any of these concerns, let us offer a treatment path forward. Learn more about our residential and outpatient addiction treatment in Lafayette and our outpatient treatment programs in Metairie. Contact us now.