Chemical dependency is a national issue that is as far-reaching as our most unsuspecting suburban neighborhoods and quiet wilderness regions. Substance abuse is also very much a reality to inhabitants of busy cities like Los Angeles, New York, Miami or Dallas, but what of the smaller cities and quieter states? Alaska’s employers and locals deal with substance abuse on a regular basis. What does this say for the rest of our country?

Unfortunately no matter where you live both employers and locals deal with the problem of substance abuse and its negative consequences. And this issue is far-reaching and devastating; not only to the local economy but the safety and happiness of the community in general.

A Look At How Alaskan Addiction Problems Pervade Sectors of Industry

It is estimated that the cost of substance abuse to Alaska’s economy is a shocking annual $1.2 billion in damages and lost productivity. (Lost productivity is considered when an individual is no longer contributing to the local economy through productive job holding or household services. Lost productivity is sub-categorized as premature death, incarceration, time spent in treatment and mental or physical impairment.)

Alaskan anti-drug experts say there is no “typical” drug user, stating that all demographics are treated at their local hospitals and drug rehabs. As we know, no family, individual or community is immune to addiction—such devastation can strike anywhere.

Although it is hard to pinpoint a pattern of what kind of Alaskan citizens are getting caught in the crossfire of drugs and alcohol, state hospital staff admit they have observed a trend over the past decade or so. Cases of substance abuse have been seen to be getting younger and younger—according to statistics, over two-thirds of Alaska’s drug treatment patients are under the age of 30. Despite this, it is not uncommon to see individuals in their 40s and 50s from middle or upper class homes, struggling to get a grip on a prescription drug habit that has gotten the better of them.

Many of the state’s business owners welcome back their employees who fell victim to an addiction after attending formal drug treatment.

National Evolution of Drug Threats

While it may take some states a little longer to adopt substance abuse trends, these facts should be understood and made common knowledge to the entire nation as a preventative measure.

Marijuana continues to be a highly infectious gateway drug across the nation. In many states, however, cocaine has become less popular and heroin has seen a resurgence in use. Further, synthetic drugs are on the top of many anti-drug groups’ watch lists for their inconsistency, high toxicity and potentially fatal qualities.

Still, America’s fastest growing drug abuse problem continues to be misuse of prescription pharmaceuticals. Employers and locals deal with substance abuse on this level perhaps more than any other, simply because individuals become hooked on the drugs prescribed to them by their doctors.

Addiction Does Not Discriminate

Whether you live in the most rural part of Alaska or the most dangerous neighborhood in Los Angeles, addiction does not discriminate. Substance abuse affects the entire nation on a powerful level.

Do your part to become educated, and fight back against this devastating public health issue. If you or a loved one are in need of drug or alcohol treatment, take action right away.

As a community member or an employer – learn the signs of drug abuse. If you suspect that someone you know is using, get them immediate help. Contact Narconon.org for more information on this topic or how to get someone into an effective rehabilitation program now.

Source:  http://peninsulaclarion.com/news/2012-11-25/employers-locals-deal-with-substance-abuse