Alcohol Abuse and Marijuana Use Top the Charts as Most Abused Substances in Austin

Alcohol and marijuana are some of the most prevalent problems facing the city of Austin, TX today.
Alcohol and marijuana may be completely different substances, but they both are at the top of the
charts as one of the main reasons people check into drug rehabs in Austin, TX. Alcohol is a legal
substance in all states and marijuana use is now legal in some states, but that doesn’t make them any
less dangerous to the body and your health. Substance abuse of any kind is cause for concern and
should be addressed.

Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism in Austin

Individuals suffering from alcohol abuse or alcoholism are known to drink in excess, so much so that
their bodies become dependent upon alcohol to function day to day. When stopping drinking, those
affected by alcoholism will experience symptoms of withdrawal. These symptoms could include
headaches, high blood pressure, trouble focusing, and difficulty sleeping. Long Term substance abuse
problems can cause significant health problems as well as destroy families, relationships and lives.
According to the American Journal of Public Health, Travis County, including Austin, TX has the highest
overall rate of drinking in all of Texas at around 65% of the population. This is 8% higher than the
national average and 12% higher than the state of Texas’ average.

Marijuana and Synthetic Cannabinoids in Austin

Both marijuana and synthetic cannabinoids such as K2, Spice, or AK 47 can be addictive and harmful.
Synthetic cannabinoids specifically have led to more harm in the later years. The appeal is
understandable as synthetic cannabinoids are usually cheaper, produce a potent high, and are harder to
detect in drug testing, but they are risky as they are laced with harmful chemicals and have led to
poisoning. In recent years, there have been instances of vomiting, trouble breathing, and severe
bleeding associated with synthetic cannabinoids use. Marijuana can be obtained in many forms such as
hash, wax, or rolled for smoking. Marijuana use commonly leads to lack of drive among users.

Substance Abuse Recovery

At Summer Sky, we treat all types of substance abuse, from alcohol to marijuana and synthetic
cannabinoids. Begin the detoxification process at Summer Sky. Our top-rated 30-day or 90-day
inpatient drug rehab programs or intensive outpatient programs offer both adult programs and family
treatment programs to meet the needs of all. At Summer Sky, we are committed to providing
exceptional care to everyone who walks through our doors. Contact us today for more information.

Contact Information

The staff here at Summer Sky truly cares about the health and well being of both you and your loved ones. If you have any questions about our facility, need assistance with referrals, or if you have any other questions about chemical dependency treatment, you can either reach us by phone at 1-888-857-8857 24-hours a day, 7 days a week, or you can fill out this contact form and someone on our staff will reach you within 24 hours.













Austin Drug Trafficking from Mexico

Austin is the capital of Texas and is located in the central part of the state. The city was founded in 1830 and was first part of Mexico until it became part of the United States. This city is named after Stephen F. Austin who was considered a founding father of Texas. Austin has a population of around 820,000 people and is the 13th most populous city in the U.S. and the fourth most populous city in the U.S. Austin has a fairly mild temperature year round, making it a desirable place for many to live. With over 300 days of sun and an average daily temperature of a moderate 70 degrees, it is a popular place to live, work, play and have fun. Austin has a unique history that can be enjoyed when you choose to settle down in the city.

High Rate of Drug Trafficking

There are many advantages to calling Austin, Texas home. But along with the many benefits and advantages to living in Austin, there are, of course, downfalls as well, such as a high drug addiction rate. While the views of the beautiful Colorado River and the seemingly endless sunny days are so appealing, at the heart of Austin is a drug addiction problem that many are unaware even exists. Because Texas borders Mexico, it is a state that is known for its drug smuggling, and that includes the city of Austin. In fact, Austin is one of the biggest cities known for drug trafficking. Drugs such as methamphetamines are smuggled into the city of Austin at an alarming rate. The use of heroin is also on the rise in Austin which means that drug cartels across the city are trying to capitalize on this addiction by bringing in more and more. Cocaine, Hallucinogens, inhalants, and marijuana are other common illegal drugs bought and sold within the city limits of Austin. The problem of addiction is becoming increasingly more of an issue in Austin. Substance abuse needs to be addressed so that those with an addiction can get the help they need from a reputable drug rehab. The only way to break the addiction is to face it head-on.

Hope for Drug Addiction

If you or someone you love is suffering from drug abuse in Austin, TX, there is hope through drug rehabs in Austin. Summer Sky is an inpatient drug rehab that has helped thousands overcome addiction since opening their doors in 1985. Summer Sky is a top rated drug rehab facility that goes above and beyond to provide you and your loved ones with exceptional care. If you are ready to break free from addiction, Summer Sky is ready to help. Contact us today for more information.

Cocaine Addiction in Austin

Cocaine is a highly addictive drug that, when used over a long period of time, can lead to severe
consequences for your health and your future. Cocaine use is so strong, that researchers have found it
can actually rewire the brain to desire more and more of this potent drug. So what can be done for
cocaine drug abuse? As with most addictions, seeking treatment from reputable drug rehabs can break
the cycle of addiction.

Cocaine Drug Abuse in Austin, TX

Mexico is not only the main source for heroin coming into Austin, but also cocaine. Austin’s close
proximity to the Mexican border means that powerful, potent, and dangerous cocaine can easily reach
its way into the city. This highly addictive drug can also be mixed with heroin to create what is known as
a “speedball”, a dangerous combination. Cocaine can also be mixed with opioids, another powerful
mixture that can lead to overdose. Cocaine itself can be used in many forms. It can be snorted,
injected, or cooked with baking soda to make crack. All forms of this addictive drug are dangerous.

HIV from Injected Drug Abuse

In addition to the addiction itself, there are other side effects of drug use. One health concern for
injected drug abuse is contracting HIV. HIV can be transmitted from sharing needles or syringes.
Cleaning equipment with the same water as others, reusing the same containers to dissolve drugs, and
reusing filters can also transmit HIV. According to recent studies, Travis County ranked number four in
the state of Texas for instances of HIV. About 4% of these cases were contributed to drug injection.
While this may not seem significant, it is important to recognize the dangers and risks of injecting drugs
such as cocaine and heroin.

Drug Treatment in Austin

The very real threats of substance abuse lead many to seek help to overcome addiction. Summer Sky is
a top rated rehab facility in Austin that has helped thousands find freedom through drug treatment
programs. Our 30-day or 90-day inpatient treatment programs or intensive outpatient programs are
designed to meet the specific needs of each individual wrestling with drug abuse. Our addiction
treatment centers are designed to help you every step of the way, from detoxification to therapy to
recovery. Summer Sky drug rehab also offers the Summer Sky relapse track for those who have sought
treatment and relapsed. Whatever your circumstance, find support and guidance at Summer Sky.

Dangers of Substance Abuse Disorder

Substance abuse not only leads to addiction, but it has the ability to change the way your body, specifically the brain, functions. This type of change can affect all aspects of life, physical, mental, and emotional. The risks of drug or alcohol abuse can lead to addiction, poor relationships with family and friends, mental health disorders, health concerns such as cardiovascular problems, organ damage, seizures, strokes, overdoses, or even death. With such significant risks and dangers, substance abuse of any kind should never be taken lightly. If you or a loved one shows signs of symptoms of drug addiction, seek treatment as soon as possible. Be sure to look for signs of intense urges or cravings, inability to stop no matter what the risks, neglecting responsibilities for no apparent reason, requiring more and more to achieve desired feelings, risk or suspicious behaviors, unexplained money problems, or withdrawal symptoms when attempting to stop.

Drug-Related Death Tolls in Austin

Needless to say, one of the most significant side effects of substance abuse is death. Because Travis County and the city of Austin have a high rate of drug abuse, the death toll reflects this. According to an issue of Chronic Disease in Travis County, alcohol use is at the top of the list as a cause of accidental and preventable deaths within the county. Cocaine, crack, and heroin deaths topped out at 35 individuals, only one less than the number of homicides in the city. These senseless deaths show the significant drug problem running rampant across the state of Texas and Austin.

Traffic Fatalities Linked to Substance Abuse

Drug and alcohol abuse leads to physical and mental impairment that contributes to numerous traffic accidents across the nation each year. Because alcohol abuse is one of the largest problems in Travis County, traffic fatalities are also increasing. In all accidents leading to fatalities across Travis County, the BAC affected nearly 38% of all autopsies. 30% of these has a BAC between .08 and .16 percent. 36% had a BAC of .17 to .24%. One-fourth of those autopsied had a BAC over .24 percent. 46% of the fatalities were drivers of the vehicle with alcohol in their system. 11% were passengers, 25% were pedestrians, and 12% were drivers of motorcycles. When you look at these staggering statistics, you can see the problems and dangers that occur, not only to yourself but to others, with substance abuse.

Get Your Life Back

Austin is a beautiful city with so much to offer its residents. But if you suffer from addiction, you are not only missing out on a beautiful life, but are also putting yourself at risk. The road to recovery isn’t easy, but at Summer Sky, we will support and guide you throughout every step of the process. Treatment programs at Summer Sky are designed to meet the individual needs of each and every person struggling with substance abuse. Find freedom from addiction at Summer Sky.

Drug Addiction in Austin, TX

Austin, TX, a major city in Travis County, has one of the largest populations in the United States. But over the years, as the population has grown in and around the city, so has the drug abuse problem. Drug abuse in Austin, TX has slowly risen over the years, so much so, that in 2012, an estimated 75,000 adults suffered from drug addiction. Among these adults, 60% of inmates in the Travis County jail system have a drug or alcohol addiction. Because of this rate of addiction, over 80% of children in the foster care system had parents that were affected by substance abuse. Out of 365 days in a year, 113 days of ambulance time was specifically dedicated to alcohol and drug abuse in the last few years. These staggering statistics show that drug addiction is a major problem in Austin, TX that is only getting worse. Because Austin, TX is only 11 hours from the Mexican border, drugs from cartels in Mexico are brought into the Austin at a much more alarming rate than anywhere else in the U.S. If addiction has affected your life, reach out to Austin drug rehabs to get the help you need to overcome addiction.

Austin Is At Risk

The city’s demographics, location, and culture put Austin more at risk for substance abuse problems among residents than other major cities across the nation. Interstate 35 is a major highway that runs through Austin, which runs up from Mexico, straight through Austin, making it an easy target for moving and selling drugs. Although the bulk of drugs through Austin is coming from Mexico, the market has changed throughout the years as marijuana has been legalized in other states. Now, some potent cannabis grown and distributed throughout Colorado is also making its way to Austin. Additionally, Austin is a town of an up and coming younger generation as it is home to college students and many young professionals. This younger generation is known for its desire to explore and try new things, including drugs. Drug abuse is especially common on college campuses. Although not everyone who tries drugs becomes addicted, it certainly poses more of a risk for someone to become dependent on drugs or alcohol. The older population in Austin also suffers from substance abuse but in a different way. As people get older, they visit the doctor for chronic pain. Pain pills can also become addictive, leading to overdoses among the older generation. You never imagine that it’s going to happen to you or someone you love, but if addiction has affected your life, there is hope through Austin Texas drug rehabs.

Summer Sky Austin Texas Drug Rehab

If you have hit rock bottom and are ready to break free from drug abuse, Summer Sky in Austin Texas is a top rehab that has the resources to help you quit. At Summer Sky, our inpatient drug rehab programs offer cognitive behavior therapy as well as support medication and assisted therapies to give you the tools you need to overcome addiction once and for all. Contact Summer Sky for problems with drug abuse in Austin Texas.

Methamphetamine Use in Austin

Methamphetamine use has surged in popularity in recent years, especially throughout Texas.  Even after measures were taken to decrease meth use across the nation, meth has made a comeback has a highly addictive stimulant that is powerful and more affordable now than ever before.  The problem may even be greater now than ever before. Sadly, no state has felt its effects more than Texas, specifically Austin. The number of treatment admissions, overdoses, and deaths related to meth are even higher than heroin.  Because of the potency of this drug, there are only a few options for kicking this addiction. 12 step drug rehab programs and behavioral therapy are the most recommended forms of treatment.

The Effects of Meth

Methamphetamines lead to an increased level of energy and a false sense of wellbeing.  Because of this, using meth can make one feel as if they need to push themselves to the limit when on a high.  When the drugs wear off, it leads to a severe crash in the form of a physical and mental breakdown. Other side effects of meth use can include weight loss, nausea, hyperactivity, aggressiveness, irritability, insomnia, hallucinations, anxiety, and paranoia.  Extreme side effects can even include seizures or convulsions that can cause death. The health of meth effects over long periods of time can be irreversible. Meth use damages the blood vessels that could cause cardiovascular problems, irregular heartbeat, or stroke.

Meth Statistics in Austin

Reports of drug use across Texas show the meth problem that exists in Austin.  Meth seizures have increased by a staggering 37% in recent years across the state of Texas and in larger cities like Dallas, Houston, and Austin.  About a third of individuals seeking treatment for drug abuse are highly addicted to this potent drug. No matter how it is used, whether snorted, injected, or smoked, this is a powerful, addictive drug with relentless consequences.

Drug Treatment is the Answer

The highly addictive nature of this substance can mean that it is hard to break free from the grips of addiction.  When seeking support, turn to Austin Texas drug rehabs. Summer Sky drug rehab treatment programs are designed to give you the tools and guidance needed to overcome even the most powerful addiction.  Cognitive behavioral therapy is a treatment tool utilized to change addictive behaviors. Inpatient drug rehab programs, adult programs, and family treatment programs are available to meet your needs.  Don’t wait until it’s too late to take control of your life. Seek professional help at Summer Sky.

Opioid Epidemic in Austin

The opioid crisis in America has become a hot topic and is a widespread problem across the nation.  Austin, TX is no exception as the opioid crisis reaches the population in Austin as well. Drugs such as heroin, oxycodone, hydrocodone, codeine, morphine, and fentanyl are classified as opioid drugs.  On average, about 115 Americans die daily because of an opioid overdose. Rehabs have also seen a rise in people seeking treatment for opioid addiction. Because of its proximity to Mexico, heroin is widely available in Austin, further exacerbating the opioid crisis the city faces.  Drug rehabs in Austin are working hard to address the opioid epidemic and offer support and treatment for substance abuse in Austin.

Opioid Abuse Is on the Rise

Both heroin and fentanyl have seen an increase in the numbers being bought and sold in the Austin area as opioid abuse rises.  Fentanyl is a powerful painkiller that is 50 to 100 times stronger than morphine. It has been prescribed for chronic pain but is known to be a powerful addictive.  Brown powder heroin and black tar heroin from Mexico are the most common forms of heroin opioids bought and sold in Austin. The alarming rate at which opioid use is increasing has affected the city of Austin.  Several deaths in and around the city are associated with drug use, specifically opioids. Whether prescribed legally or not, opioids are a dangerous addictive that can ruin lives.

Dangers of Opioid Addiction

Opioids are extremely addictive because after use, powerful endorphins are released that trigger the feel-good area of the brain.  This feeling muffles pain and enhances pleasure, creating a sense of well being that highly addictive. Over time, the release of endorphins slows, requiring more and more opioids to achieve a high.  Opioids can be taken in pill form or crushed up and snorted or injected. When taken in any other form than originally intended, it can lead to overdose. Opioid addiction most often also leads to severe depression or anxiety, family and relationship problems, as well as criminal activities.  If opioid addiction has affected your life or the life of a loved one, drug rehabs in Austin, TX may be the answer you have been looking for.

Seek Treatment for Substance Abuse

Summer Sky drug rehab provides treatment programs for drug abuse in Austin, Texas.  Summer Sky is an excellent choice as they are joint commission approved for drug treatment, which is the highest certification drug rehabs can receive.  Summer Sky seeks to provide treatment for all who reach out, accepting all major insurances and providing the lowest treatment rates among all other Austin, Texas drug rehabs.  Innovative therapy programs such as pet therapy or equine therapy are a part of treatment programs to address physical and emotional concerns. Contact Summer Sky for more information and find healing today.

The Worst Drugs in Austin

Hidden beneath the outward beauty of Austin lies a very significant drug problem.  While this drug problem has gone on for years, it is increasing more and more each year.  Addiction is a serious concern for many that can lead to significant health problems. In some instances, it can even prove to be fatal.  No substance abuse should be taken lightly. With this in mind, it is important that drug rehabs are available and able to offer treatment to those looking to overcome their addiction.  But just what are some of the most common addictions that Austin TX drug rehabs can help with?

Common Addictions in TX

According to statistics, alcohol is at the top of the list of common addiction problems in Texas.  Of the almost 40,000 people who were admitted to a state rehab facility, over a quarter of them sought substance abuse treatment for alcohol addiction.  Marijuana is the second most common addiction in Texas. The legalization of cannabis in many states has caused marijuana use to rise significantly over the past few years. Many people assume that marijuana has no addictive properties and cannot lead to substance abuse, but studies over the years have shown differently. Heroin and methamphetamine use are not far behind.  Heroin use has skyrocketed over the past few years, causing concern for many. The most common forms of cocaine being sold and used are brown heroin and black tar heroin, both of which are injected and both of which predominantly come from Mexico. Cocaine and other opioids are also on the list as some of the most common drug abuse problems in Texas. Cocaine has been confiscated more and more, most recently along the Mexican border, which could mean a potential spike in use over the next few years as more and more is brought into the state of Texas, specifically Austin.  Cocaine use among African Americans is decreasing while it is on the rise among Caucasians.

Other Commonly Used Drugs in Austin, TX

While not as common, tranquilizers, PCP, inhalants, sedatives, and hallucinogens are also drug addictions that have affected the lives of many.  Acid and mushrooms aren’t predominantly being sold as much anymore, but they can still become a problem. Inhalants such as spray paint, gasoline, and paint thinners are most commonly used while under the influence of alcohol but can affect the health of many.  Drugs of any kind, whether commonly used or not are harmful substances that affect overall quality of life. If you are suffering from drug abuse in Austin, TX, Summer Sky drug rehab is here to help. As one of the top rated drug rehabs in the area, Summer Sky is equipped to help you break free from even the most powerful addictive.  Contact Summer Sky today for more information.

“Choose The Path to Freedom”