Grand Rapids Treatment Centers

Grand Rapids, Michigan, has a significant substance abuse problem. Fortunately, the city is being very proactive in addressing this issue. They have put in place systems of intervention in order to prevent future drug and alcohol abuse, while at the same time recognizing that addiction is a disease, and that people need help for it straightaway. To address this issue in particular, Grand Rapids authorities signposting people to a variety of drug and alcohol detox and rehab centers in or near the city. Specifically, they want to remove barriers to access by offering state-sponsored, more affordable, facilities, and also by ensuring that people of specific demographic groups can seek the treatment they require. For instance, there are executive facilities, faith based facilities, facilities for young people, and so on. Grand Rapids public health professionals understand that the greatest chance of success comes when treatment is offered in a way that is personalized and tailored to the needs of the individual.

The Scope of the Substance Abuse Problem in Grand Rapids, MI

Statistics have shown that:

• 2.8% of the population aged 12 is first initiated to smoking.
• 6.2% of the population aged between 12 and 17 is first initiated to smoking.
• Young women are less likely to start smoking than young men.
• 51.8% of all those aged 12 and above report having consumed alcohol in the past month.
• 7.2% of all young people aged between 12 and 17 required substance abuse treatment. Unfortunately, only around 8.4% of those who needed it actually received detox or rehab treatment.

The Grand Rapids Solution

Grand Rapids city officials are particularly concerned about the rates of tobacco and alcohol abuse among young people. These two substances are known to be gateway drugs for harder substances. Additionally, knowing that around 7 in every 100 young people requires help, but so few get it, has given rise to a number of intervention projects. Grand Rapids has various detox and rehab facilities within its city limits, as well as beyond it. These include residential and outpatient facilities. At the same time, they also have a strong aftercare network in place, so that those who complete treatment can continue to be supported. The focus right now, therefore, is on letting people know about these facilities and understand how to refer themselves to them if they need the help.

Prevention is also an important element of the efforts Grand Rapids authorities have put in place. They want to ensure that all residents have healthy alternatives to choose from, and that they understand the dangers of substance abuse and addiction. They aim to achieve this through various community education and outreach programs.

Lastly, those who abuse substances and go against the law can be referred to the 61st District Court's Sobriety Court. Here, these people are given the opportunity to receive treatment rather than being required to go to jail. If they complete the program, which is very tough and highly intensive, their criminal case will be dismissed in court.