It can be difficult to know if and when to call an addiction hotline in Idaho. Drug and alcohol addiction manifests in different ways in different people. The complexity of addiction lies in the fact that it can impact people from any walk of life, regardless of age, gender, social status, ethnicity, or cultural background. What’s more, the effects of addiction extend beyond the individual, involving their friends and family and affecting their relationships, work performance, physical and mental health, and overall well-being.

That’s why recognizing the signs of addiction and seeking professional help at a specialized rehab facility is so important. This is a crucial first step towards recovery and a substance-free life.

IDAHO SUBSTANCE ABUSE RESOURCES

SUBSTANCE ABUSE BY YOUTH IN IDAHO

The Idaho Healthy Youth Survey 2021 was administered to nearly 10,000 students at more than 50 schools in the state. The findings were as follows: [1]

Among 12th graders in Idaho the following was reported in the past month:

  • 1 in 5 had consumed an alcoholic beverage.
  • 1 in 5 had used an e-cigarette or vaping device.
  • 1 in 7 had used marijuana.

Results of the survey from students in 6th, 8th, 10th, and 12th grades found:

  • 1 in 3 students said they find it easy to access alcohol.
  • 1 in 4 students said they find it easy to get prescription drugs for misuse.
  • 1 in 6 students said they find it easy to get marijuana and tobacco.

SUBSTANCE ABUSE IN IDAHO

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) reports the following with regards to substance use in Idaho:

YOUTH AGED 12-17 YEARS

  • Past-month marijuana use was reported by 5.9% of adolescents in 2017-2019 compared to 7.7% 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 6.7% of youth in 2017-2019 compared to 16.4% in 2002-2004. The US national average changed from 17.6% in 2002-2004 to 9.4% in 2017-2019.
  • Past-month illicit drug use was reported by 7.3% of teenagers in Idaho aged 12-17 years in 2017-2019 compared to 7.9% 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 6.8% (US average 9.3%), marijuana 4.2% (US average 5.2%), and cigarettes 2.6% (US average 2.3%).

Both alcohol and marijuana use among adolescents in Idaho have shown encouraging downward trends between 2002 and 2019. Illicit drug use among the youth has also decreased marginally. In addition, these numbers are all similar or lower than the US average overall.

YOUNG ADULTS AGED 18-25 YEARS

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

  • Past-year marijuana use was reported by 28.7% of young adults in Idaho in 2017-2019 compared to 23.4% 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 2.5% of young adults aged 18-25 years in 2017-2019, compared to 4.1% 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 1.0% of young adults in Idaho in 2017-2019 compared to 1.7% 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 4.3% of Idaho residents aged 18-25 years in 2017-2019, which was similar to the figure for 2015-2017. The US national average hovered around 7.2-7.5% during this time period.
  • Past-month binge alcohol use was reported by 29.9% of young adults in 2017-2019 compared to 31.9% in 2015-2017. The US national average in 2017-2019 was 35.4% showing binge alcohol use in Idaho is slightly less common in the state compared to the whole country on average.
  • Past-year alcohol use disorder among young adults aged 18-25 was reported in 9.5% of Idaho residents in 2017-2019, compared to 16.6% in 2002-2004. The US national average for 2017-2019 was 9.8%. Idaho is therefore at par with the number of young adults battling alcohol use disorder in the country as a whole.
  • Past-year substance use disorder was reported in 12.2% of young adults aged 18-25 years in Idaho in 2017-2019 compared to 12.1% in 2015-2017. The national average has hovered between 15.1% and 14.7% during this time period.

IDAHO RESIDENTS 12 YEARS OF AGE AND OLDER

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

  • Past-year marijuana use: 13.4% (US average 16.2%)
  • Past-year marijuana use disorder: 0.9% (US average 1.6%)
  • Past-year heroin use: 0.25% (US average 0.30%)
  • Past-year prescription painkiller misuse: 4.0% (US average 3.7%)
  • Past-year misuse of prescription pain relievers: 4.1% (US average 3.7%)
  • Past-year opioid use disorder: 0.9% (US average 0.7%)
  • Past-year illicit drug use disorder: 2.4% (US average 2.9%)
  • Past-year alcohol use disorder: 5.9% (US average 5.3%)
  • Past-year substance use disorder: 7.6% (US average 7.4%)
  • Number of people enrolled in substance use treatment (single day counts for 2019): 5,634
  • Number of people enrolled in opioid treatment programs (single day counts for 2019): 607
  • Problems among people enrolled in treatment: 40.5% drug problem only, 12.9% alcohol problem only, 46.6% both drug and alcohol problems
A clipboard with the header Drug Addiction along with a blue highlighting pen, a hypodermic needle, and blue and white capsules.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF ADDICTION

Addiction manifests differently in each person due to a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. Some people develop a physical dependence on drugs or alcohol, leading to withdrawal symptoms when they try to quit. Others experience intense cravings and inability to control their substance use. Psychological dependence, characterized by an emotional attachment to drugs or alcohol, can also be a significant component of addiction. It can lead to destructive behaviors, such as neglecting responsibilities, engaging in risky activities, or experiencing mood swings and irritability.

WHY CALL AN IDAHO ALCOHOL OR DRUG ADDICTION HELPLINE?

Seeking professional help at a specialized rehab facility is vital for several reasons. These facilities offer a structured and supportive environment designed to address addiction in a holistic and comprehensive manner. They are staffed by a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals who specialize in substance abuse and addiction treatment, including doctors, therapists, counselors, and support staff. This team of experts understands the complexities of addiction and can provide evidence-based treatments tailored to each person’s needs.

One of the most significant benefits of a rehab facility is the emphasis on detoxification under medical supervision. The withdrawal process can be physically and emotionally challenging, and in some cases even life-threatening. In a specialized rehab facility, alcohol and drug users can undergo detoxification under medical supervision to safely manage withdrawal symptoms.

Additionally, rehab facilities offer a range of therapeutic interventions aimed at addressing the root causes of addiction. These interventions equip recovering drug and alcohol abusers with the tools necessary for long-term recovery. They can include individual counseling, group therapy, family therapy, behavioral therapies, and other holistic approaches such as yoga or art and music therapy. Through these modalities, a person can gain a better understanding of their addiction, develop coping mechanisms, and learn relapse prevention strategies.

WHAT PREVENTS PEOPLE FROM CALLING AN IDAHO DRUG HOTLINE?

Unfortunately, there is still a significant stigma surrounding addiction, which makes many people hesitant to seek help. There is often a sense of shame or fear judgment from others, which prevents drug users, alcoholics, and their loved ones from reaching out for support.

An additional problem is the limited availability of treatment facilities and the challenges of navigating the healthcare system. There can be long waiting lists for publicly funded treatment programs, and private rehab facilities can be expensive and inaccessible for many people.

Addressing the stigma and increasing access to treatment resources are crucial steps in supporting individuals with addiction. As a society, we need to foster a compassionate and understanding environment that encourages people to seek help. Governments and healthcare systems need to invest more funds in addiction treatment services, making them widely available and more affordable. Education and awareness campaigns can also help dispel many of the myths and misconceptions surrounding addiction, promoting a more empathetic and supportive approach.

WHAT CAN THE IDAHO DRUG HELPLINE DO FOR ME?

The National Drug Helpline is a toll-free 24/7 hotline number 1-844-289-0879 that offers up-to-date information and immediate support to anyone struggling with drug or alcohol abuse.

Representatives who answer the calls at the Idaho addiction helpline are helpful, non-judgmental, and knowledgeable. They understand that addiction is a complex disease and provide a safe space to discuss all your concerns.

Call the National Drug Helpline today to find drug and alcohol treatment facilities in Boise, Meridian, Nampa, Idaho Falls, Pocatello and other communities throughout Idaho. Get immediate access to useful resources and information specific to your local area, such as treatment facilities, counseling centers, and support groups.

References:

  1. Idaho Office of Drug Policy. Idaho Healthy Youth Survey. Available online. Accessed on July 13, 2023.
  2. SAMHSA. Behavioral Health Barometer Idaho. Available online. Accessed on July 13, 2023.

Last updated: July 25, 2023