South Florida is considered a diverse and sprawling metropolitan region that continues to grow each year. Whether it’s the sunshine or low taxes, the area continues to attract new residents from all over the United States and beyond. South Florida is known as the “Florida Gold Coast,” consisting of Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach Counties. The areas boast some of the most expensive zip codes in the country, but they also host activities ranging from fun on the beach to drug abuse.
The three counties are home to some of the busiest ports in the United States, which are used heavily to transport drugs coming from outside the United States. Whether it’s cocaine from South America or fentanyl analogs from China, the area continues to get hit hard by drugs flooding the region. The drugs find themselves in the hands of kids and adults alike. Fortunately, drug rehab in South Florida is among the best in the world and readily available to those ready for help.
South Florida Drug Abuse Statistics
In 2017, the National Drug Early Warning System released statistics highlighting the scope of drug abuse in South Florida. The article includes:
Marijuana Abuse In 2017:
Broward County: Seven percent of adults 12 or older
Miami-Dade County: Five percent of adults 12 or older
Palm Beach County: Six percent of adults 12 or older
Illicit Use of Pain Relievers
Miami-Dade County: 67,428
Broward County: 52,601
Palm Beach County: 39,992
Substance Use Disorders by Type & County
Illicit drugs or alcohol
Miami-Dade County: 141,301
Broward County: 113,432
Palm Beach County: 89,216
Other relevant drug use information includes:
- Oxycodone was the most common non-medical use of a drug to cause fatalities, and it has increased exponentially since its decline between 2011 and 2013.
- An estimated 85 percent of addiction treatment patients under the age of 18 in 2016 reported marijuana as their drug of choice.
- Benzodiazepine overdoses that ended in hospitalizations exceeded heroin and other prescription opioids during the first portion of 2016.
Drug abuse is prevalent throughout the South Florida region, and those wishing to overcome their battle with drugs and alcohol will require addiction treatment to win the fight.
Drug Rehab Statistics
Drug rehab in South Florida has many advantages, including proven treatments and therapies that provide the client with the necessary tools to achieve sobriety. Addiction is a challenging disease to overcome alone, and the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) estimates that relapse rates hover between 40 and 60 percent. Getting help and becoming part of a recovery community is your best chance of long-term abstinence.
Most Commonly Abused Substances in South Florida
A list of the most commonly abused substances in South Florida include:
- Opioids
- Marijuana
- Alcohol
- Cocaine
- Fentanyl
Florida’s Drug Rehab History and Rankings
Florida has a rich history of treating drug and alcohol addiction. Many facilities include the American Society of Addiction Medicine’s continuum of care, which provides guidance for clients, addiction professionals, and families alike. South Florida is known for its gold star treatment.
Quick Treatment Facts
Addiction treatment can only be effective when all 13 components are applied, and NIDA offers clarity on some of these. Not all treatment plans will help everyone, as it must meet the needs of the particular client seeking treatment. Treatment must last at least 90 days and treat more than drug addiction.
