Laredo Treatment Centers

There are two significant problems with substance abuse in Laredo, TX. The first is the number of cocaine addicts, estimated to be 1,396, which is substantially higher than cities of similar size. The second problem is that of prescription medication abuse, with some 3,731 people believed to abuse painkillers and other similar substances. Additionally, it is estimated that around 49 people will die as a result of alcohol intoxication this year, again substantially higher than in other cities of similar size, reflected as well in the number of DUI arrests (815).

The Addiction Problem in Laredo

Because of Laredo's proximity to Nuevo Laredo, in Mexico, there is a significant concern about drug trafficking in the area. Numerous different organizations have conducted research on the issue of drug, alcohol, and other substance abuse problems. They have found that:

• Cocaine is a very commonly abused substance, and some people have turned to crack cocaine.
• 15% of admissions to rehab centers in 1997 were in relation to cocaine.
• Cocaine first became a problem in Laredo in 1986, and it has only increased since.
• School surveys have shown that increasing numbers of young people use cocaine, as well as heroin.
• 70% of all admissions to rehab centers in 1997 were related to heroin. However, this has dropped significantly.
• Cannabis is the city's most popular illicit drug. 7% of all 6th grade children and 25% of all high school students have used it.
• Rohypnol is a popular street drug. Treatment facilities are seeing increasing numbers of people who are addicted to heroin or cocaine, and abuse rohypnol as a secondary substance.

As a result of the surveys that released the data above, further studies have looked into the rates of fatalities as a result of drug or alcohol abuse. This showed that:

• The majority of substance abuse-related deaths were due to alcohol.
• The majority of drug overdoses in Laredo were due to heroin.
• There are some concerns following an increase in fatal cocaine overdoses.

Treatment in Laredo

Because of these statistics, Laredo has engaged in two specific efforts:

1. Educating young people and the community on the dangers and realities of drugs. These efforts serve as an intervention before it is too late, encouraging people to find alternatives to drugs instead. Heavy investment has been made in services for young people, providing them with safe places to learn and spend free time.
2. Ensuring treatment facilities are available where people can receive tailored help. This includes inpatient and outpatient facilities, medically assisted detox options, faith-based rehab, and so on.

Laredo presents a drug and alcohol abuse picture that is not dissimilar to the rest of the country. It is hoped that the two-pronged approach that the city is taking, which is to intervene early and to provide treatment for those who need it, will improve the overall situation. This is done through close integration of law enforcement, health services, educational establishments, community organizations, and the population of Laredo itself, and particularly its young people.