Drug and Substance Abuse: a Growing Crisis

In the past decade, drug and substance abuse has emerged as a significant public health crisis, not only in the United States but globally. This escalating issue is reflected in alarming statistics: in the U.S., sixteen percent of children over the age of 12 are reportedly addicted to alcohol, illegal drugs, or nicotine. This problem is not confined to the youth; nearly seventeen percent of adults aged sixty or older are also grappling with substance abuse. Globally, it is estimated that about five percent of the population is addicted to illicit drugs or mind-altering substances. A report by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation underscores the severity of this crisis, revealing that substance and tobacco abuse has resulted in more deaths, illnesses, and disabilities than any other preventable health condition.

The Scope of the Crisis

The impact of substance abuse is staggering, with forty million Americans affected, surpassing those with heart conditions, diabetes, and cancer combined. The methods of substance ingestion are varied and include oral ingestion, drinking, inhalation, smoking, and injecting drugs directly into the veins. While some individuals use alcohol and drugs socially without losing control, it becomes problematic when it disrupts daily life and responsibilities. Data from the State of Iowa Substance Use Epidemiological Profile State Epidemiological Workgroup 2016 highlights that alcohol is the most reported substance of use in Iowa. Although the overall number of admissions for substance use disorders decreased by four percent from 2014, indicating fewer people sought treatment, the rate of illicit drug use remained consistent at three percent, with marijuana being the most widely used.

Consequences and Treatment Approaches

Substance abuse is not only a health issue but also a social one, leading to problems such as child and spousal abuse, sexually transmitted diseases, teenage pregnancy, school failure, motor vehicle crashes, low worker productivity, and homelessness. Addressing these issues requires a multifaceted approach, including mezzo-level interventions like family therapy, screening, and assessment. Family therapists focus on clients' strengths and family dynamics, observing interactions to identify alliances, conflicts, and relational boundaries. They may extend evaluations to other systems, such as schools and workplaces, to understand their impact on the client’s family.

When therapists first meet with families dealing with substance abuse, they assess the situation to prepare for involvement. They determine if immediate intervention is necessary or if a more thorough assessment can be scheduled later. This process involves referring individuals to detoxification programs and using screening tools like the DSM-5 or resources found in TIP 11 (Substance Abuse Treatment and Family Therapy).

Professional Pathways and Prevention Strategies

To tackle substance abuse effectively, trained professionals such as counselors and social workers play a crucial role. In Iowa, becoming a certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor involves passing a criminal background check, acquiring 24 semester hours of college credits in relevant areas, completing 150 hours of education on alcohol and drug abuse, and gaining 1,000 hours of supervised work experience. Additionally, professionals must complete 500 hours of duties related to the eight ADC domains and provide proof of 36 hours of direct supervision.

Similarly, Substance Abuse Social Workers must complete introductory social science courses and earn a Bachelor’s degree, followed by a Master’s degree covering topics like pharmacology, substance abuse prevention, assessment, and treatment. These educational paths ensure that professionals are well-equipped to support individuals struggling with addiction and work towards preventing substance abuse.

Iowa is implementing strategies to prevent and control substance misuse in families and communities. Among their goals are reducing alcohol and drug-related fatalities and decreasing the number of high school juniors using alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs. Initiatives include engaging schools and communities by speaking to sixth and eighth graders about the impact of drugs as they mature and increasing awareness and access to prevention information.

The Human Element in Substance Abuse Treatment

Organizations like Community Access and Life Management in Iowa offer vital support for those struggling with addiction and mental health issues. Their focus on dual diagnosis of drug and alcohol addiction treatments includes short-term outpatient care, outpatient detox services, and partial hospitalization programs. Treatment approaches incorporate cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, addiction treatment counseling, 12-step-based treatment, and brief intervention strategies.

In an interview with Colleen Christopherson, a Psychology teacher and Supervisor of the Drug and Alcohol Outpatient Program at Community Family Resources, she highlighted the challenges faced in this field. As a supervisor, she manages organizational policies, employee performance, and legal compliance, while also counseling clients due to understaffing. The demand for services is high, but the field is often overwhelming due to a lack of staff, which can lead to burnout.

Conclusion

Addressing drug and substance abuse requires a comprehensive approach involving education, prevention, and treatment. It is important for professionals in this field to be passionate and prepared for the challenges they will face. While the crisis is daunting, with the right strategies and dedicated professionals, progress can be made in reducing the impact of substance abuse on individuals and communities. Ultimately, the goal is to create a healthier society where individuals are supported in overcoming addiction and leading fulfilling lives.

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