Addiction is a complex mental health condition that requires a multifaceted approach for successful recovery. Fortunately, telecommunication technology has made addiction treatment more accessible by offering an array of digital tools, apps, and online platforms to support your journey to recovery. Resources such as virtual therapy, support groups, and a wealth of information and resources for recovery from substance abuse are right at your fingertips.

The National Drug Helpline is a toll-free number 1-844-289-0879 that operates 24/7, including holidays and weekends. A simple phone call at a time convenient to you gives you instant access to updated information about substance abuse treatment in South Dakota. All calls to the helpline are completely confidential and are answered by trained professionals. We can help you find local resources and provide guidance in a safe, non-judgmental, and private space.

Call 1-844-289-0789 today to discuss addiction treatment for yourself or a loved one. Get answers to all your questions about substance abuse and addiction treatment. Find drug and alcohol treatment facilities in Sioux Falls, Aberdeen, Rapid City, Watertown, Brookings, and other communities in South Dakota.

SOUTH DAKOTA SUBSTANCE ABUSE RESOURCES

SUBSTANCE ABUSE BY YOUTH IN SOUTH DAKOTA

The South Dakota Youth Risk Behavior Survey 2021 showed the following findings among 9th, 10th, 11th, and 12th graders in the state: [1]

ALCOHOL USE

  • Percentage of students who currently drank alcohol: 24.3%
  • Percentage of students who were currently engaged in binge drinking on at least 1 day in the past 30 days: 11.1%

MARIJUANA USE

  • Percentage of students who ever used marijuana: 25.3%
  • Percentage of students who used currently used marijuana in the past 30 days: 14.6%

PRESCRIPTION PAIN MEDICATION MISUSE

  • Percentage of students who ever took prescription pain medications such as codeine, Vicodin, OxyContin, or Percocet without a doctor’s prescription or differently than prescribed: 13.0%

EXPOSURE TO DRUGS AND ALCOHOL

  • Percentage of students who ever used inhalants (glue, aerosol cans, paints, sprays): 5.6%
  • Percentage of students who ever used heroin (smack, junk, China White): 0.9%
  • Percentage of students who ever used methamphetamines (speed, crystal meth, ice, crank): 1.0%
  • Percentage of students who ever injected an illegal drug: 0.5%
  • Percentage of students who were ever offered, given, or sold an illegal drug on school property: 8.3%

SUBSTANCE ABUSE IN SOUTH DAKOTA

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) reports the following with regards to substance use in South Dakota: [2]

YOUTH AGED 12-17 YEARS

  • Past-month marijuana use was reported by 6.5% of adolescents in 2017-2019 compared to 9.5% in 2002-2004. During a similar timeframe, the US national average decreased from 7.9% in 2002-2004 to 6.8% in 2017-2019.
  • Past-month alcohol use was reported by 9.3% of youth in 2017-2019 compared to 24.7% in 2002-2004. The US national average also showed a downward trend from 17.6% in 2002-2004 to 9.4% in 2017-2019.
  • Past-month illicit drug use was reported by 8.3% of South Dakota teens aged 12-17 years in 2017-2019 compared to 8.8% in 2015-2017. The US national average was stable at 8.2% during this time.
  • Past-year initiation of substances (first lifetime use) was reported by youth as follows during 2017-2019: Alcohol 9.6% (US average 9.3%), marijuana 3.6% (US average 5.2%), and cigarettes 1.8% (US average 2.3%).

Marijuana, alcohol, and illicit drug use among adolescents in South Dakota have all shown positive trends with decreased usage in 2019 compared to 2002.

YOUNG ADULTS AGED 18-25 YEARS

The data for young adults aged 18-25 years in South Dakota is as follows:

  • Past-year tobacco use among young adults was reported by 46.9% in 2017-2019 compared to 65.7% in 2002-2004. The US average decreased from 54.3% in 2002-2004 to 37.2% in 2017-2019.
  • Past-year marijuana use was reported by 29.5% of young adults in South Dakota in 2017-2019 compared to 26.9% in 2002-2004. During a similar timeframe, the US national average increased from 28.7% in 2002-2004 to 35.0% in 2017-2019.
  • Past-year marijuana use disorder was reported in 5.4% of young adults aged 18-25 years in South Dakota in 2017-2019, compared to 5.1% in 2002-2004. The US national average changed from 6.0% in 2002-2004 to 5.6% in 2017-2019.
  • Past-year opioid use disorder was reported in 0.9% of young adults in South Dakota in 2017-2019 compared to 1.3% in 2015-2017. The US national average changed from 1.3% in 2015-2017 to 1.0% in 2017-2019.
  • Past-year illicit drug use disorder was reported in 8.0% of South Dakota residents aged 18-25 years in 2017-2019 compared to 7.7% in 2015-2017. The US national average was around 7.2% to 7.5% during this time period.
  • Past-month binge alcohol use was reported by 44.6% of young adults in 2017-2019 compared to 49.2% in 2015-2017. The US national average in 2017-2019 was 35.4% showing binge alcohol use in South Dakota is considerably higher than the country as a whole.
  • Past-year alcohol use disorder among young adults aged 18-25 was reported in 14.3% of South Dakota residents in 2017-2019, compared to 25.7% in 2002-2004. The US national average for 2017-2019 was 9.8%. South Dakota therefore has a higher percentage of young adults battling alcohol use disorder compared to the US average for all states.
  • Past-year substance use disorder was reported in 18.8% of young adults aged 18-25 years in South Dakota in 2017-2019 compared to 19.1% in 2015-2017. The national average has hovered between 15.1% and 14.7% during this time.

SOUTH DAKOTA RESIDENTS 12 YEARS OF AGE AND OLDER

The Behavioral Health Barometer also found the following for 2017-2019 in South Dakota residents aged 12 years and older:

  • Past-year tobacco use: 30.7% (US average 26.8%)
  • Past-year marijuana use: 11.5% (US average 16.2%)
  • Past-year marijuana use disorder: 1.4% (US average 1.6%)
  • Past-year heroin use: 0.02% (US average 0.30%)
  • Past-year prescription painkiller misuse: 3.2% (US average 3.7%)
  • Past-year opioid use disorder: 0.7% (US average 0.7%)
  • Past-year illicit drug use disorder: 2.5% (US average 2.9%)
  • Past-year alcohol use disorder: 6.7% (US average 5.3%)
  • Past-year substance use disorder: 8.0% (US average 7.4%)
  • Number of people enrolled in substance use treatment (single day counts for 2019): 2,864
  • Number of people enrolled in opioid treatment programs (single day counts for 2019): 130
  • Problems among people enrolled in treatment: 19.1% drug problem only, 19.8% alcohol problem only, 61.0% both drug and alcohol problems
A hand holding a mobile phone device with an indoor plant in the backdrop.

WHAT ROLE DOES TECHNOLOGY PLAY IN ADDICTION RECOVERY?

Virtual Therapy

By embracing technology, you get the opportunity to access psychotherapy from the comfort and privacy of your home. Virtual therapy sessions are conducted through video calls by licensed therapists and can be as effective as in-person therapy sessions. During these sessions, you share your experiences, challenges, and goals with a trained professional who provides guidance and support that is tailored to your needs.

Support Groups

Connecting with other people who are going through similar struggles is an essential part of addiction recovery. Online support groups and forums allow you to share your thoughts, feelings, and experiences with a community that understands exactly what you’re going through. You can find support groups for various types of addiction, such as alcohol, drugs, gambling, or other compulsive behaviors. These virtual support groups enable you to exchange advice, provide and get encouragement, and build a support network that helps you stay on track. [3]

Recovery Apps

There are many apps designed to assist you in your journey to recovery, for example, I Am Sober, Recovery Path, Sober Today, 12 Step AA NA Daily Meditation, and Sober Grid. These apps are designed to aid you in tracking your progress, setting goals, analyzing triggers, and accessing resources that can help you stay motivated. Some apps even offer additional features such as mindfulness exercises and other techniques to manage cravings and reduce stress. By integrating recovery apps into your daily routine, you can gain valuable insights into your recovery and maintain your commitment to a sober life.

Educational Resources

Knowledge is power. Understanding the nature of your addiction is crucial to overcoming it. Online platforms offer a wealth of information in the form of articles, videos, e-books, and webinars. You can learn about the science behind addiction treatment, effective coping strategies, and the latest treatment options. This information can help you make informed decisions about your recovery and better navigate the challenges that arise along the way.

Telehealth Services

Telehealth services extend beyond psychotherapy and can give you access to medical professionals who can prescribe medications and offer medical guidance as needed. These services can be a lifeline, ensuring you receive the necessary medical care to support your recovery, while minimizing the time and cost involved with physical visits to healthcare facilities.

24/7 Support

Technology gives you access to support whenever you need it. Many addiction recovery hotlines and crisis text lines operate 24/7, providing immediate support during moments of crisis or when you need someone to talk to. The National Drug Helpline can be accessed by calling 1-844-289-0879. We can give you up-to-date information and help you find comprehensive treatment programs for substance abuse in South Dakota.

Accountability and Tracking Tools

Digital tools can be very useful in helping you stay accountable and tracking your progress towards successful recovery. For instance, you can set reminders for meetings, medications, or self-care activities, ensuring you stay on the right path. Some apps also offer tracking features to monitor your progress over time, giving you a visual representation of how far you’ve come.

Privacy and Confidentiality

It is natural to be concerned about privacy when you’re seeking addiction treatment. The good news is that many online platforms take confidentiality very seriously and use encrypted communication to protect your information. This means you can participate in virtual therapy and support groups without compromising your anonymity.

The National Drug Helpline on 1-844-289-0879 offers confidential support and information around the clock. Let us be the driving force behind your success by helping you find a professional substance abuse recovery program in South Dakota. Along with the support of digital tools and a strong personal resolve, you can overcome addiction and build a healthier, happier future.

References:

  1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. South Dakota Youth Risk Behavior Survey 2021. Available online. Accessed on September 9, 2023.
  2. SAMHSA. Behavioral Health Barometer South Dakota. Available online. Accessed on September 9, 2023.
  3. National Library of Medicine. Benefits of Peer Support Groups in the Treatment of Addiction. Available online. Accessed on September 9, 2023.

Last updated: September 8, 2023