Substance Abuse Stats for the State of Louisiana
Wondering what substance abuse stats in Louisiana look like? They are troubling, to be sure. Here are three figures that paint an uncomfortable picture:
- In 2017 Louisiana had 24.5 drug overdose deaths per 100,000 people, significantly higher than the US average.
- This figure represents a 12.4 percent jump from the previous year.
- Statewide, Louisiana healthcare providers generated 89.5 opioid prescriptions per 100 people. The US average is 58.7.
If you’re in Louisiana and battling substance abuse, rehab can provide relief.
Choosing Between an Outpatient and Inpatient Rehab
There are two main choices in rehab care: outpatient and inpatient rehab.
Outpatient rehab costs less (usually) and lets patients retain a degree of freedom. They spend evenings and overnights at home with their families. For patients with positive relationships and support, outpatient can be an effective choice.
Inpatient rehab offers 24/7 monitored treatment and is the correct choice for those battling chronic addiction or who don’t have support at home. It’s more expensive but often offers better outcomes.
How Long Can Treatment at a Rehab Last?
You’ll find rehab programs at various lengths. 90 days is common, as are 60 and 180 days. Some programs last a year or longer.
We’ve found that longer treatment stays generally lead to better outcomes. Addiction doesn’t change overnight. It takes time to resolve the physical aspects of addiction, and it can take even longer to eradicate the problematic patterns of thinking that come with addiction.
For this reason we recommend rehab stays last a minimum of 90 days.
What to Expect at Rehab
Good quality rehab programs take the time to build a customized plan for each patient, because every addiction looks a little bit different. Your overall course of treatment will vary, including how long and how much of various therapies you receive. Most rehab plans include a mix of the following, among other elements.
- Cognitive behavioral therapy: one-on-one therapy to change ways of thinking leading to poor actions
- Group talk therapy: AA-style group discussion
- Detox: physical detoxification (if needed)
When Would You Need to Go to Detox?
Detox allows your body to safely detoxify from its physical dependence on one or more addictive substances. If your addiction is chronic (long lasting) or uncontrolled (you can’t stop yourself from using), you will need detox as a part of your rehab plan.
Another sign you need to go to detox is if you’ve developed a physical dependence on an addictive substance. If you experience physical withdrawal symptoms, then detox is likely the right choice.
How Long Is Detox?
Most detox programs run between 3 and 21 days, though some can be even longer. How long will you need? That depends on several factors, including these:
- Length of addiction
- Dosage level
- Type of drug (stimulants take longer to detox)
- Health and metabolism
Also, realize that not every rehab center is set up to accommodate detox. You may be referred elsewhere for this step.
Not sure where to start regarding detox and rehab? Talk to your care provider today.