San Marcos Drug and Alcohol Rehab
The City of San Marcos
San Marcos, located in Hays County, Texas, is a metropolitan area situated along the I-35 corridor in between Austin and San Antonio. It has an approximate population of 63,000 people and is thought to be one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities within the United States. Located on the banks of the San Marcos River, this city has been named one of the fastest growing cities in the U.S. as well as number nine on the Business Insider’s list of “10 Most Exciting Small Cities in America”. Hot and humid summers are followed by mild and cool falls and winters. This temperate draws many to this city, making it a popular place to live.
Economy
Because of its convenient location near Interstate 35, San Marcos is an ideal city for industry. It has several regional airports that give locals access to many major airports as well as a thriving freight route along the highway because of its access to major cities like Houston, Dallas, Austin, and San Antonio. San Marco is also home to the fourth-largest university in the state, Texas State University as well as two Austin Community College campuses. Gary Job Corps, an education and career technical training program, is also located in the city. The San Marcos Outlet Malls have been named by the popular daytime talk show The View as the third best place to shop in the world. These outlets draw in nearly 6 million people annually.
Activities
San Marcos has many fun activities for people of all ages. Sewell Park is a popular park near the San Marcos River and close to Texas State University. On any given day, you can find people swimming, playing volleyball, having a picnic, or hanging out with friends and family. In 2010, San Marcos was fourth on Business Week’s “Best Place to Raise Your Kids” category. Fun family activities to do with kids, including tubing, canoeing, swimming, or fishing along the river, visit any of the 40 historic homes in the downtown area of San Marcos, or search for the ten mermaid statues erected throughout the city. In the summer, you can also take in a concert in the park or visit the popular music venue Cheatham Street Warehouse. San Marcos boasts of the filming location of many popular films such as Friday Night Lights or American Crime. It has a rich Spanish culture and longstanding history that makes it unique and appealing.
Drug Addiction in San Marcos, Texas
Drug Trafficking from Mexico
If you think that drug addiction in San Marcos, Texas and Texas as a whole is closely related to its proximity to the Mexico border, you would be correct. Texas shares its border with Mexico, where drug cartels are in abundance. These drug cartels bring substances such as heroin, methamphetamines, or marijuana across the border and into Texas to be sold and distributed. Because of San Marcos’ proximity to major cities and its position along the interstate, it is directly affected by drug trafficking from Mexico. Drug trafficking from Mexico is on the rise, and with it, addiction and substance abuse disorder in cities such as San Marcos. Illegal drugs in large numbers are being brought into Texas, affecting those who live here and destroying the lives of many. But there’s hope with San Marcos drug rehabs. With proven treatment programs and access to the tools to overcome addiction, many are finding freedom from the chains of addiction.How Is San Marcos Affected by Drug Abuse?
In 2012, over 22 million Americans admitted to needing treatment for drug or alcohol addiction. These staggering statistics show the effect that substance abuse has had on the U.S. as it has become a growing problem. No state has escaped the statistics of addiction, and Texas is no different. In fact, as one of the first places to receive drug shipments from across the border, one can argue that perhaps addiction in Texas, specifically San Marcos, can be even more problematic. Although it’s not the state with the highest addiction rate, it is significantly impacted by drug abuse. The suffering related to substance abuse is also a cause for concern. Families are torn apart, financial ruin ensues, or loved ones lost because of drug abuse in San Marcos. No one is immune to the lasting consequences of addiction. Thankfully, treatment options at drug rehabs are readily available to those who are ready and willing to do what it takes to break the cycle of addiction.
Which Drugs Are the Worst in San Marcos?
Some drugs are more readily available in certain cities across Texas. Because of the drug trafficking from across the border of Mexico, drugs such as methamphetamine, cocaine, and heroin are in abundant supply and readily available for easy access. The nearby town of San Antonio has reported that nearly 80,000 people in the city have admitted to using methamphetamines, a number that is significantly higher than previous years. Sadly, the average lifespan of a person addicted to meth is only 10 years unless treatment is sought for this highly addictive substance. Marijuana from Mexico and from other states in the U.S. where marijuana is now a legal substance have caused a rise in this type of drug use, especially among the younger population. Because San Marcos has a large college population stemming from the large campus of Texas State University, marijuana use and alcohol abuse numbers have grown. Each year, police seize more marijuana than any other drugs combined, and the large majority of it can be traced back to Mexican cartels. Approximately one in four patients seeking treatment at a drug rehab facility is there primarily for marijuana use. Opioid abuse has become a national epidemic that has seeped into Texas cities like San Marcos. While numbers for opioid overdose and deaths are falling in other parts of the United States, the numbers in Hays County, Texas are still rising, concerning many residents in the town of San Marcos.
Alcoholism and Alcohol Abuse in San Marcos
Although San Marcos is a thriving small city in Texas, it is still plagued by issues such as alcohol abuse. In Texas, alcohol is the number one abused substance with 58% of students grades 7-12 admitting to having used alcohol at some point. Problems such as binge drinking, heavy drinking, or alcohol addiction are present within the city and can affect many, including the college students at the local University. But it’s not just college students who are drinking in abundance. A recent 2015 Gallup poll found that individuals between the ages of 30 to 49 consumed more alcohol than any other age bracket. Alcohol is thought of by many as a way to relax and unwind from the stresses of life, but it can be dangerous when drank in excess. Too much alcohol in the system can lead to alcohol poisoning and even death. Heavy drinking over time can cause liver problems, heart issues, and a myriad of other health concerns. Driving while under the influence can be devastating not only for those who are drinking, but for others involved in alcohol-related accidents. But fighting alcohol abuse has become a top priority for many, including San Marcos drug rehabs.
Opioid Epidemic in San Marcos
In 2015, there were a reported 33,000 deaths related to opioids use, and out of those, 1,186 deaths occurred in Texas. The good news is that according to a 2016 University of Texas study, the rate of overdoses and deaths throughout Texas related to prescription medications and opioids such as hydrocodone, fentanyl, or oxycodone are decreasing overall. But in Hays County, the opioid crisis is still on the rise. Local law enforcement and addiction counselors report a steady increase in the number of opioid cases over the past few years. The statistics state that one in every four patients in San Marcos seeking treatment for addiction is dealing with opioid addiction. The average age range for those addicted to these pain medications is 16-25. For many, a lack of treatment options has been a problem as they haven’t had the resources needed to fight opioid addiction. But inpatient drug rehab programs in San Marcos are reaching out to let residents know that there is hope with their proven treatment options such as support medication and cognitive behavior therapy. With the necessary resources in place, the goal is to provide help for those suffering from opioid addiction in an effort to see the addiction trend decrease.
Methamphetamine Abuse in San Marcos
While news of the opioid crisis is sweeping the country, the story for Texas residents may look a little different. Crystal meth has slowly been making a return as the CDC reported that deaths related to methamphetamine overdose nearly tripled between 2011 and 2016. This increase is contributed largely in part to the highly potent, cheaper meth that is coming from across the Mexico border and into the States. Methamphetamine is one of the most difficult substances to overcome addiction. Its potency and addictive properties are strong. Drug treatment is often the only option for those addicted to meth and can take time and significant will power to break free from this cycle of addiction. Meth can have very severe withdrawal symptoms, and without assisted medications that exist for opioid addiction, the ability to detox can be quite difficult. But it’s not impossible with the help and support of San Marcos drug rehabs. Meth affects people of every race, gender, and age. The average age of users in Texas is 29, but for males, the average age was 23. More and more, the younger generation is being faced with substance abuse issues. Increased awareness about the effects of drug addiction and methamphetamine abuse as well as education programs have helped bring attention to the meth abuse facing San Marcos and surrounding cities in Hays County.
Cocaine Addiction in San Marcos
Cocaine found in San Marcos and the surrounding areas of Hays County is most often a direct result of this illicit substance being brought in from across the border of Mexico. In 2002, Texas was at the top of the list for the amount of cocaine seized at nearly 17,0000 kilograms. From 2010 to 2015, Texas border patrol saw a 17% decrease in cocaine seizures. But that doesn’t mean the problem doesn’t exist. While it isn’t as prominent as it once way, this dangerous stimulant can have serious physical and mental consequences. Cocaine is a powerful stimulant that can be mixed with other drugs to make it even more potent and dangerous. It can be snorted or injected or mixed with baking soda and heated to make “crack cocaine”. Cocaine in any form can be extremely harmful or even lethal and addiction should be taken seriously. Consider treatment options San Marcos, Texas drug rehabs before it’s too late.
Marijuana and Synthetic Cannabinoids in San Marcos
The legalization of marijuana in some states across the U.S. has downplayed that problems that are associated with this substance. What many people don’t understand is that marijuana addiction is a real problem. There are still withdrawal symptoms as well as lasting mental and physical consequences related to marijuana abuse. Marijuana use has also been linked to instances of schizophrenia disorder. This drug is often thought of as a gateway drug that can lead to using other more harmful substances such as cocaine or heroin. But the fact remains that marijuana is easily available in Texas, both from Mexico and other parts of the U.S. In 2002, 555,324 kilograms of marijuana were seized, putting Texas in the number one spot for marijuana seizures that year. Synthetic Cannabinoids are no better. This man-made substance with names such as K2 or Spice can be extremely dangerous. Many forms of synthetic cannabinoids have been found with harmful substances such as rat poison or embalming fluid.
Other Commonly Abused Drugs in San Marcos
Some drugs have decreased in popularity, but they are still as present and as powerfully addictive as ever. Substances that were popular back in the early decades such as mushrooms, LSD, known as acid, or other hallucinogens are still found across the U.S. and in Texas. For the younger generation, inhalants have become popular. Inhaling chemicals such as glue, spray paint, cleaning supplies, among other substance can lead to the desired high and are easily accessible for the younger ages. Sadly, this type of addiction can severely damage the brain. If you suffer from addiction to any type of substance, please seek treatment. Drug rehabs in San Marcos are here to help.
HIV from Injected Drug Abuse
It’s not just the worry of addiction that is associated with substance abuse. There are other harmful consequences that can come from drug use. Sharing of drug paraphernalia such as needles or syringes has led to an increase of contracted HIV from injected drug abuse. The risk of transmitting HIV through the sharing of injection equipment is very high. Sharing syringes is the 2nd riskiest behavior for transmitting HIV. Blood left on syringes and needles can enter the bloodstream of others using the same equipment, leading to the contraction of the HIV virus.
Drug-Related Death Tolls in San Marcos
In 2018, Texas drug overdose numbers were at a staggering rate with 2,995 drug overdose deaths. This is nearly triple the number that it was in the early 2000s. Meth and cocaine were the top two illicit substances responsible for drug overdoses. Despite local authorities’ attempts to decrease production or trafficking of these substances, they continue to find their way into the hands of Texas residents. San Marcos has not escaped the effects of drug-related deaths. In 2016, it was reported that 30 fatalities were directly related to drug overdoses. The drug overdose mortality rate in Hays County is 6 per 100,000 people, showing that this is truly a deadly problem that can no longer be ignored.
Traffic Fatalities Linked to Substance Abuse
According to statistics, Texas sadly led the nation in 2017 for the number of traffic fatalities. 39% of these fatalities were a direct correlation of alcohol use with a driver having a blood alcohol content of .8 or higher. It’s not just alcohol that is the cause of traffic fatalities. Accidents linked to drug abuse have also increased in recent years. In 2016, approximately 12 million people in the U.S. drove while under the influence of illicit drugs and the number of drivers killed in crashes related to opioid use has increased sevenfold. Legal limits for drug use are harder to enforce than alcohol as to what counts as intoxication, but new tests are being analyzed every day.
Dangers of Substance Use Disorders
There are multiple dangers of substance use disorders that can affect a person physically, mentally, and emotionally. For example, physically, addiction can ravage a person’s health. It can lead to heart disease, liver or kidney disease, or ultimately death. Emotionally, addiction takes a toll on not just those addicted to substances, but also on their friends and families. It can lead to loss of a job, financial security, or even the ones you love. The throes of substance abuse are far-reaching and can affect so many. Mentally, addiction changes the pathways of the brain. The pleasure center of the brain is altered. Ultimately, the brain becomes used to substances and requires more and more to achieve the desired high. This is what can lead to the risks of overdose or death because of substance abuse. The fact remains that the dangers are severe. If you suffer from substance use disorders, you are not alone. However, it is imperative that you seek help as soon as possible to avoid lasting consequences. San Marcos drug rehabs have supportive staff and proven treatment methods to aid in combating addiction. If you are deep in the throngs of addiction in San Marcos, find hope with Summer Sky drug rehab.
Summer Sky Drug Rehab
Summer Sky has helped many men and women overcome addiction for over 30 years, since opening its doors in 1985. It is a top-rated drug treatment facility with support staff and proven treatment methods to help fight addiction. As a facility that is joint commission approved for drug treatment, one of the highest certifications a drug treatment center can receive, we are equipped to provide the tools and resources you need to overcome addiction. Medical detox with assisted support medications can remove all harmful substances from your system. Additional support through cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, or other assisted therapies can help you begin your journey to recovery. With a highly reputable treatment program and excellent staff and medical professionals to guide you in this process, it is possible to break the chains of addiction.
Treatment Options
At Summer Sky, we know that no two drug addictions are alike. That is why we tailor our treatment to meet the specific needs of every individual who walks through our doors. We understand that everyone’s schedule and availability can vary. For this reason, a variety of treatment options are available so that you can receive the treatment you need, when you need it. Whether you are looking for an inpatient drug rehab with 30- to 90-day treatment options, intensive outpatient therapy, family treatment programs, or medical detoxification, we have a program that is right for you. Summer Sky has a wide variety of treatment programs available for every type of addiction such as inhalants treatment, treatment for heroin use disorder or alcohol use disorder or any other addictive substances. Have you relapsed? Don’t give up! Summer Sky relapse track can help you get back on the road to recovery once again. We combine traditional treatment methods with newer, innovative approaches that address the whole person, physically, mentally, and emotionally. Equine therapy and pet therapy are also available.
Treatment Rates
For many, the cost of drug rehab can prevent them from getting the help they need. But Summer Sky seeks to provide treatment to all. We offer some of the most affordable treatment rates in the area in addition to accepting all major insurances. We don’t want to see people suffer from addiction without getting the care and support required because they feel they can’t afford treatment. If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, Summer Sky can help! Contact us today for more information or visit our website at summersky.us.