You've probably heard that drug addiction and alcoholism are a big problem in the U.S., but you may not be aware of how it affects your community. In Butler County in 2015, substance abuse treatment programs admitted 478 people for alcohol and other drugs. The use and abuse of alcohol and drugs are serious issues that you shouldn't ignore.
Sgt. Mark McClendon with the SEMO Drug Task Force has seen the way "drugs and alcohol negatively impact the community, act as a contributing factor to other crimes, and how it affects family life - sometimes tearing families apart." The SEMO Drug Task Force's primary goal is to enforce drug laws to keep the community safe and healthy.
Cyndi Keele, the executive eirector of National Alliance of Mental Illness (NAMI) mentions that in a rural community, alcohol and drugs can seem like a socially acceptable way of treating mental health or other health problems, such as long-term pain. However, self-medicating with drugs and alcohol can worsen your health problems and can lead to addiction.
Over the past several years, Poplar Bluff has seen both hospitalizations and deaths due to drugs or alcohol go up. While prescription drug addiction "has always been out there," Sgt. Mark McClendon told us, "the pill problem has really multiplied in the past few years." He said it doesn't always start with intentions to take the pills recreationally. It may start with a valid prescription and an honest attempt to control pain, but then over time, the body can't live without it.
That's why it's so important to recognize the signs and symptoms of alcohol and drug abuse early. There are a number of signs that you or someone you love may have a drug or alcohol addiction.
You might be addicted to alcohol if you: * Have temporary blackouts or memory loss * Drink alone, in the mornings or in secret * Argue or fight with family members or friends when you drink * Use alcohol to relax, cheer up, sleep, deal with problems or feel "normal"
* Get a headache, have anxiety, problems sleeping, feel sick or other unpleasant symptoms when you stop drinking
You might be addicted to drugs and other substances if you:
* Can't control your use of drugs - you may use more than you want to, for longer than you meant to, or even after telling yourself that you won't do it anymore
* Go to work or school less often or not do as well in work or school
* Keep using the drug even though it is causing problems on the job, in relationships or for your health Substance use disorders are a common health issue both in Missouri and the United States. You are not alone. Here are resources that can help in your community:
* The Missouri Department of Mental Health has treatment programs for adults, teenagers, and children. Call the local office for substance use services in Butler county at (573) 368-2298.
* If you are considering suicide, call the Behavioral Health Crisis Hotline/Access Crisis Intervention Line at (800) 356-5395.
* If you have information on drug abuse, call the SEMO Drug Task Force at (573) 472-3320. Your call will be kept confidential.