To address addiction at its core, a comprehensive substance abuse treatment approach is of paramount importance. In other words, tackling addiction on multiple levels can increase the likelihood of successful recovery. The Massachusetts drug addiction hotline can help you find treatment programs that use this tried and tested method of integrating various therapeutic modalities, such as counseling, medical intervention, behavioral therapy, support systems, and alternative or holistic modalities.

This approach tackles the complex underlying factors that play a role in the development of addiction. A holistic approach accounts for a person’s physical, emotional, and psychological wellbeing, and includes tailored strategies to cope with triggers and cravings, while also treating co-occurring disorders. This comprehensive method of treatment increases the likelihood of lasting change by equipping a person with the necessary tools to overcome addiction’s greatest challenges and embrace a healthier, substance-free life. It empowers a person to reclaim control, rebuild relationships, and rediscover a sense of purpose and fulfillment.

The National Drug Helpline is a toll-free 24/7 hotline 1-844-289-0879. Operators are available around the clock, including holidays, weekends, and after hours to give you updated information about addiction treatment options in Massachusetts. Calls are answered by trained representatives who can point you towards local resources and offer guidance and support in a safe, non-judgmental space.

Call 1-844-289-0789 today to discuss your concerns and get answers to your questions. Complete privacy and confidentiality are guaranteed. Find drug and alcohol treatment facilities in Boston, Worcester, Springfield, Lowell, Cambridge, and other communities in Massachusetts.

MASSACHUSETTS SUBSTANCE ABUSE RESOURCES

SUBSTANCE ABUSE BY YOUTH IN MASSACHUSETTS

The Massachusetts 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 had their first alcoholic drink before age 13 years: 9.5%
  • Percentage of students who currently drank alcohol: 22.5%
  • Percentage of students who were currently engaged in binge drinking on at least 1 day in the past 30 days: 11.4%

MARIJUANA USE

  • Percentage of students who tried marijuana for the first time before age 13 years: 3.8%
  • Percentage of students who used currently used marijuana in the past 30 days: 16.6%
  • Percentage of students who ever used synthetic marijuana (spice, K2, black mamba, fake weed): 4.7%

EXPOSURE TO DRUGS AND ALCOHOL

  • Percentage of students who ever used cocaine: 1.3%
  • Percentage of students who ever used heroin (smack, junk, China White): 0.6%
  • Percentage of students who ever used methamphetamines (speed, crystal meth, ice, crank): 0.8%
  • Percentage of students who ever used ecstasy: 2.0%
  • Percentage of students who were ever offered, given, or sold an illegal drug on school property: 9.6%

SUBSTANCE ABUSE IN MASSACHUSETTS

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

YOUTH AGED 12-17 YEARS

  • Past-month marijuana use was reported by 12.2% of adolescents in 2017-2019 compared to 11.6% 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 13.6% of youth in 2017-2019 compared to 22.6% 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 13.7% of Massachusetts teens aged 12-17 years in 2017-2019 compared to 12.4% 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 13.2% (US average 9.3%), marijuana 8.8% (US average 5.2%), and cigarettes 2.4% (US average 2.3%).

Marijuana use by youth in Massachusetts has increased between 2002 and 2019 and is significantly higher than the national average. Alcohol use among teens has shown an encouraging downward trend but is higher than the national average. Illicit drug use among adolescents in Massachusetts is similarly higher than the US as a while.

YOUNG ADULTS AGED 18-25 YEARS

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

  • Past-year marijuana use was reported by 46.2% of young adults in Massachusetts in 2017-2019 compared to 40.3% 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 5.8% of young adults aged 18-25 years in Massachusetts in 2017-2019, compared to 9.1% 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 1.2% of young adults in Massachusetts in 2017-2019 compared to 1.0% 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 8.3% of Massachusetts residents aged 18-25 years in 2017-2019 compared to 8.6% 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 45.9% of young adults in 2017-2019 compared to 46.6% in 2015-2017. The US national average in 2017-2019 was 35.4% showing binge alcohol use in Massachusetts is considerably higher than the whole country on average.
  • Past-year alcohol use disorder among young adults aged 18-25 was reported in 13.9% of Massachusetts residents aged 18-25 years in 2017-2019, compared to 19.0% in 2002-2004. The US national average for 2017-2019 was 9.8%. Massachusetts 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 19.0% of young adults aged 18-25 years in Massachusetts in 2017-2019. This was similar to 2015-2017. The national average has hovered between 15.1% and 14.7% during this time.

MASSACHUSETTS RESIDENTS 12 YEARS OF AGE AND OLDER

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

  • Past-year tobacco use: 25.0% (US average 26.8%)
  • Past-year marijuana use: 21.7% (US average 16.2%)
  • Past-year marijuana use disorder: 2.2% (US average 1.6%)
  • Past-year heroin use: 0.47% (US average 0.30%)
  • Past-year prescription painkiller misuse: 2.9% (US average 3.7%)
  • Past-year opioid use disorder: 1.0% (US average 0.7%)
  • Past-year illicit drug use disorder: 3.6% (US average 2.9%)
  • Past-year alcohol use disorder: 6.2% (US average 5.3%)
  • Past-year substance use disorder: 8.7% (US average 7.4%)
  • Number of people enrolled in substance use treatment (single day counts for 2019): 66,912
  • Number of people enrolled in opioid treatment programs (single day counts for 2019): 19,830
  • Problems among people enrolled in treatment: 56.7% drug problem only, 14.6% alcohol problem only, 28.7% both drug and alcohol problems
A medicine bottle with a label that says Stop Obsession with red and white capsules in the foreground and a blue background of superimposed squares, a black splotch, and a pair of hands.

HOW CAN HOLISTIC APPROACHES HELP IN ADDICTION RECOVERY?

Holistic approaches to substance abuse treatment focus on addressing a person’s physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual wellbeing. These methods recognize that substance abuse is a complex, interconnected condition that is linked to various aspects of a person’s life. Consequently, effective treatment for addiction requires a range of comprehensive and integrated methods. In addition to traditional treatment modalities such as counseling, medication, and support groups, holistic approaches incorporate alternative therapies to promote self-awareness, self-regulation, and personal growth. Some of these alternative therapies are:

Yoga

Yoga is a practice that combines physical postures, breathing exercises, and meditation. It can be very beneficial for people struggling with substance abuse by reducing stress, anxiety, and depression and promoting relaxation and self-control. The physical aspect of yoga improves strength, flexibility, and body awareness, providing a healthy outlet for emotional release. Regular yoga practice can also improve sleep patterns and enhance overall wellbeing.

Meditation

Meditation is a mindfulness practice that involves focusing the mind on the present moment. It helps to cultivate self-awareness and allows a person to observe their thoughts and emotions without judgment. For those in substance abuse recovery, meditation can be a powerful tool to cope with cravings and triggers. It helps develop a greater sense of inner peace and resilience. Meditation also promotes a stronger connection with oneself and fosters a deeper understanding of the underlying causes of addiction.

Art or Music Therapy

Art or music therapy involves creative expression through various forms like painting, drawing, sculpting, music, or writing. This therapeutic approach to substance abuse treatment provides a non-verbal outlet for people in recovery to express their emotions and experiences related to addiction. Art and music therapy can help clients process trauma, reduce stress, and gain insights into their thoughts and behaviors. It allows for self-discovery and personal growth, empowering a person to develop healthier coping mechanisms.

Mindfulness

Mindfulness is the practice of being fully present in the present moment, without judgment. Integrating mindfulness into substance abuse treatment can help in developing a heightened sense of self-awareness and self-compassion. Mindfulness techniques can be used during therapy sessions and in everyday life to manage triggers and cravings, regulate emotions, and improve decision-making.

These holistic alternative approaches are not a replacement for traditional addiction treatment methods. Rather, they complement traditional treatments and create a more well-rounded and effective treatment plan. By addressing the physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of an individual’s life, these alternative therapies can significantly contribute to the recovery process and empower a person to take an active role in their recovery journey. They provide valuable tools for coping with stress and triggers, thereby reducing the risk of relapse and return to substance abuse. These practices also create a sense of self-empowerment and personal responsibility, enabling a person to develop a healthier and more balanced lifestyle beyond their addiction.

Call the National Helpline on 1-844-289-0879 to find drug and alcohol rehabilitation programs in Massachusetts that integrate holistic approaches and offer comprehensive treatment plans tailored to each person’s unique needs and preferences. Remember, professional guidance is essential to ensure safe and effective addiction treatment.

References:

  1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Massachusetts Youth Risk Behavior Survey 2021. Available online. Accessed on July 24, 2023.
  2. SAMHSA. Behavioral Health Barometer Massachusetts. Available online. Accessed on July 24, 2023.

Last updated: July 25, 2023