About Waco, TX
The city of Waco, located in the heart of Texas, was founded in 1849 by the Huaco Indians. It is situated right in between the cities of Austin and Dallas along the I-35 corridor. Waco has many attractions, shopping, and restaurants that make it a fun place to be. It is also a place rich in history and culture. Economic opportunities abound in Waco, Texas.
About Waco
Waco is located in McLennan County, is over 95 square miles, and has a population of about 130,000 people. It is the 22nd largest city in Texas and the 197th most populous city in the United States. Waco has some beautiful attractions that bring many people into the city such as historic homes, recreation venues, musical and theater productions and art exhibitions. It’s a great place to live, and there’s never a dull moment in Waco.
Attractions
Waco is famous for many things such as being the birthplace of Dr. Pepper, which was invented in Waco in 1885. It is also home to the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum as well as the Texas Sports Hall of Fame. Another amazing attraction in Waco is the Waco Mammoth National Monument, which a 100 plus acre woodland where Columbian mammoth bones were discovered along the Bosque River. It also boasts one of the biggest parks in all of Texas, Cameron Park, a 416-acre park located right in downtown Waco. Waco not only has many major attractions, but also three major colleges: Baylor University, Texas State Technical College, and McLennan Community College. With many opportunities available and cultural experiences right at your fingertips, Waco is truly a great city in Texas.
Drug Addiction in Waco
Unfortunately, many residents of Waco struggle with substance abuse. There is a need for treatment options and drug rehabs within the city to address drug abuse in Waco, Texas. Anywhere people turn in Waco, drugs and alcohol are in their face, making it a problem that can’t be denied. In fact, drug abuse is on the rise, especially among teenagers. Hydrocodone and OxyContin are among two and most popular drugs of choice for teenagers in Waco, but the use of synthetic marijuana, K2, heroin, and opioids is also on the rise. The problem of substance abuse has become so great a threat that the attorney general has called for a national heroin and opioid awareness week to address these growing problems, of which Waco has not escaped. In the state of Texas, Waco included, methamphetamines are still the number one major drug threat among the population as death counts from overdose is on the rise. In 2016, 715 deaths were caused by methamphetamine use. With addiction running rampant across Texas and the city of Waco, it is undeniable that something must be done. Drug rehabs in Waco, Texas are available to meet your needs and help you break free from addiction.
Drug Trafficking from Mexico
How Is Waco Affected by Drug Addiction?
This beautiful city, known as the heart of Texas, has not escaped the woes of drug addiction and substance abuse. Although it is a great city with so much to offer its residents, it is still plagued by illegal substances brought into the city because of drug trafficking. The fact of the matter is that drug use is on the rise in Texas and in Waco. With so many affected by this, inpatient drug rehab has become a means to help many escape this lifestyle. Families and communities are fighting back in an effort to combat the substance abuse problem that has taken hold of Waco.Which Drugs Are the Worst in Waco?
Across Texas a whole, marijuana is the substance that is seized most by authorities, sometimes in large quantities, with an average of 500,000 kilograms seized each year. The ease of access because of bordering states such as Colorado making it legal has led to his problem. Cocaine ranks second with over 17,000 kilograms reported seized each year. By and large, Methamphetamine has become one of the worst drugs to take hold of Waco. In 2018, authorities arrested 30 drug dealers in a major central Texas drug bust who were part of two large drug trafficking rings that have set up shop in Texas. They were found in possession of large quantities of methamphetamine and were also charged with intent to distribute cocaine. In addition to methamphetamine and cocaine, heroin is also becoming more readily available in both its white powdery substance form, brown powdered form and in the black tar form that comes directly from Mexico. However, because of the low prices of methamphetamine, it has become more widespread in use than heroin, replacing it as one of the worst drugs in Waco.Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism in Waco
Alcohol dependency can and will affect your life, family, job, and life. It is a prevalent concern across the United States, the state of Texas, and more specifically, the city of Waco. Because Waco is home to three large college campuses, drinking is not only an issue among adults, but also among college-aged students. Baylor University specifically has seen a rise in alcohol violations across campus. Alcohol use in residence halls increased by 14% from 2011 to 2012 and are continuing to rise. Alcohol-related arrests rose from 5% to 8% at Texas State Technical College. Among men and women in Waco, TX, the County of McLennan reported binge drinking statistics that average as some of the highest in the state of Texas. The county report also found that about 5% of all women and 8% of all men are heavy drinkers. Alcohol abuse and alcoholism in Waco should be taken seriously as it can lead to long term health effects such as liver disease and even death. Waco rehabs have programs designed for substance abuse of all types, including alcoholism.
Opioid Epidemic in Waco
The opioid epidemic across the United States has also impacted both McLennan County and the city of Waco. Opioids include substances such as heroin, oxycodone, morphine, hydrocodone, codeine, opium, and other substances. Because prescription drugs have led to the addiction of many to opioids, specifically pain medications, McLennan County has pushed to limit prescribing of opioids in a healthcare setting. The rise of heroin has also affected McLennan County because it is cheaper and more accessible than prescription opioids. The resurgence of heroin is due largely in part to the drug trafficking that is rampant up and down the I-35 corridor, where Waco is directly located. One of the many dangers of heroin use is that drug users are never sure of the dosage per batch. One batch may be less potent while the next one is stronger, causing an increase of heroin overdoses in the city of Waco. Fentanyl is another dangerous opioid that can be mixed with heroin, opioids, or other substances. In 2016, fentanyl powder began appearing more and more in the state of Texas, leading to a slew of addiction and overdose problems. This prescription drug is used to combat chronic pain but has highly dangerous and addictive properties that can sometimes cause more harm than good. Whether prescribed or not, opioids and fentanyl are on the rise, being both bought and sold inside McLennan County.
Methamphetamine Abuse in Waco
In recent years, Waco police have reported a surge of crystal meth presence within the city limits. This clear, rock-like substance has also led to a higher rate of reports of endangered children who are being exposed to methamphetamine. Local drug rehab clinics have also seen an increase in the number of patients seeking drug treatment for methamphetamine use. While there is meth reportedly being made within the city of Waco itself, a large quantity of methamphetamine is thought to originate in Mexico and make its way illegally across the Mexico – Texas border. The Mexican cartel is bringing in more potent and powerful meth that is of a higher grade, of 90% purity. It is brought into Texas where it is sold and also distributed across the United States. In 2011 alone, drug enforcement officer seized over 1600 grams of methamphetamine, up from just 542 grams in 2010. In 2014, the state of Texas declared it may be facing a methamphetamine epidemic if numbers continued to rise. It has become such a problem that the DEA’s primary focus in now on methamphetamine instead of the once popular cocaine drug. While crystal meth is a popular form, methamphetamine can be taken in many forms. It can be injected, snorted or smoked, but is just as dangerous in any form.
Cocaine Addiction in Waco
Cocaine is a powerfully addictive substance made from the leaves of the Coca plant found largely in South America. Although in some instances it has been used medically as a local anesthetic, it is most commonly known as a powerfully addictive drug. Cocaine is a street drug that is a fine, powdery white crystal form that is often mixed with other substances such as heroin or opioids or mixed and cooked with baking soda to form crack cocaine. No matter what form, cocaine is a dangerous substance. Waco, Texas has been affected by this addictive drug, leaving many of its residents in the throes of addiction. Cocaine in Waco, Texas is also a product of the Mexican drug cartels that is illegally brought into the United States and distributed throughout major Texas cities such as Waco. It can also lead to overdose deaths. According to a drug overdose report released in 2016, 57 people died of a drug overdose, cocaine overdoses included. Both powder cocaine and crystal crack cocaine are responsible for destroying lives. But you can fight addiction by seeking help through treatment at drug rehabs in Waco, Texas that specialize in addiction treatment programs. You don’t have to succumb to the growing trend of cocaine addiction in Waco, TX. Seek help beneficial programs such assisted therapies that use mindfulness strategies and support medications to help you detox and break free from substance abuse.
Marijuana and Synthetic Cannabinoids in Waco
While other drugs continue to be a problem for people in Waco, TX, police report that by far, marijuana is the number one most confiscated drug throughout the city. The legalization of marijuana in some states has made it far easier for people to buy this drug and bring it back to Texas, although the majority of marijuana is still brought in from Mexico. This rise in marijuana use has led to more tolerance among other larger cities such as Austin and Dallas. But because of the ever-present drug addiction problem in Waco, it and surrounding smaller cities are declaring war on this illegal substance. Marijuana itself usually refers to a substance made from parts of the plant. It can be smoked or extracted from the plant to make “hash”, which is more potent than smoking the leaves. Synthetic marijuana is a different type of substance that binds to the cannabinoid receptors in the body, making them more powerful. Synthetic marijuana, such as K2 or “Spice” is an even bigger concern as it can be laced with harmful chemicals that can lead to health concerns or even death. In 2016, it was found that the synthetic marijuana, K2, was responsible for sending multiple individuals to the hospital for poisoning from being laced with rat poison. Other batches of K2 have been found to be mixed with embalming fluid. The danger of not only mixing this drug with harmful chemicals but also driving while under the influence can lead to harm.
Other Commonly Abused Drugs in Waco
Methamphetamine, heroin, cocaine, marijuana, and other opioids top the charts as the most problematic substances found in Waco, but other commonly abused drugs include hallucinogens and inhalants. Hallucinogens such as LSC, also known as acid, and mushrooms may not be as common as they once were in previous decades, but they are still prominently abused drugs. Inhalants such as spray paint, gasoline, and paint thinner have more specifically affected the younger generation. The products may not be as prevalent throughout Waco, but the effects are still dangerous. No matter what type of substance you are addicted to, substance abuse in any form is sure to take a toll on both your mental and physical health. Drug rehabs in Waco want to help before it’s too late.
HIV from Injected Drug Use
Drug use can lead to the spreading of the HIV virus. In the United States, 9% of all HIV related cases were transmitted from injected drug use. In 2016 in the state of Texas, there for approximated 4500 cases of HIV reported. Of these cases, about 27% are attributed to injected drug use of both men and women. 220 counties out of Texas were identified as the most at risk for HIV outbreaks due to the opioid epidemic and drug-related issues. McLennan County was among the 220 counties identified. Contact of any kind with someone that has HIV can lead to the spreading of the virus. This includes sharing needles or even washing syringes and needles in dirty water used by others. Just one person that has HIV poses a threat of spreading the virus to others through drug use. With HIV on the rise in the city of Waco, it is important to be aware of the risks associated with drug use, including HIV.
Drug-Related Death Tolls in Waco
Deaths from drug abuse have affected Waco quite a bit in the past few years and continue to plague the city and its people. According to the Texas Motor Vehicle crash statistics in 2017, approximately 214 alcohol-involved crashes occurred in McLennan County. At least 9 of these crashed resulted in fatalities. In Texas, drug addiction and overdose are also at the top of the list of causes of accidental injuries and deaths. Overdoses from opioids such as fentanyl, hydrocodone, heroin, or oxycodone are among the most common substances to cause drug-related deaths in Waco and all across Texas. In fact, the number of opioid-related deaths in the state of Texas has risen to above 1,000 deaths per year and is steadily rising each year as of recent Texas Health Data. No longer can we ignore drug and alcohol addiction as the drug-related death tolls in Waco increase each year.
Traffic Fatalities Linked to Substance Abuse
As statistics have shown, substance abuse leads to a number of fatalities each year. Numerous crashes and traffic fatalities have been because alcohol or drug abuse was a factor. In Texas, 5 out of every 100,000 drivers suffered a fatality due to a blood alcohol level that was over .08. On average, about 2 out of every 100,000 drivers that tested positive for drugs were involved in a fatal accident. For McLennan County and the city of Waco, the most commonly detected drug found in drivers involved in a fatal crash were cannabinoids. Marijuana and motors don’t go together. Neither do alcohol and getting behind the wheel.
Dangers of Substance Use Disorders
Across the nation, nearly 7 million people suffer from a drug disorder. One in four deaths is a result of substance use disorders. Drugs and alcohol are chemical that ultimately affect the function of the brain. Different types of drugs will have different effects, but the fact remains that all drug or alcohol substances are harmful to the body. Even after stopping use, long-lasting effects can still remain. Over time, drugs will change the way the brain functions, affecting your ability to live a normal life, make decisions, or feel emotions or pleasures. Long term use of drugs or alcohol can and will lead to dependency and addiction. Before risking your health, consider the dangers of substance abuse.
What Is Substance Abuse?
Substance abuse or drug abuse, also known as substance use disorder, is known as habitually taking an addictive substance, so much so that it causes an addition. These substances can include alcohol, marijuana, opioids, heroin, cocaine, and a slew of other drugs or chemicals. This disease causes people to make compulsive choices to use drugs or alcohol despite what it may do to their friends, family members, or health. It is a disease that needs to be addressed before it leads to overdose, organ disease, or possible death. Inpatient drug rehabs at Waco, Texas drug rehabs have proven programs that can help you break free from the cycle of addiction before your addiction destroys your life.
Drug Abuse and Your Health
There are both long and short term effects of drug addiction that can vary from person to person. The effects of drug abuse depend on the type of addiction, health of the person, age, and so on. But rest assured that no one is safe from the effects of what drugs can do to your health, especially over a consistent period of time. Drug abuse can lead to heart conditions, a weakened immune system (making you more susceptible to illness or infection), strain on the liver, strokes, seizures, lung disease, memory problems, or a wide range of other effects. Trying to detox and remove harmful substances from the body without the help of medical professionals can also lead to major health problems. If your health is important to you and you want to be free from addictions, get medical support from reputable Waco drug rehabs where you are surrounded by professionals around the clock who can provide the support and care you need to get well.
Summer Sky Rehab in Waco
Summer Sky is a prominent drug rehab in Waco that has helped thousands of men and women fight substance abuse since opening its doors in 1985. Our privately owned and operated facility strives to provide a family-like environment that makes you feel comfortable while providing you with the necessary treatment needed to overcome drug and alcohol abuse. Supportive staff and knowledgeable medical professionals provide exceptional care round the clock to offer treatment that meets the needs of each individual patient who walks through the doors. Find a program that is right for you, whether it’s a 30-day inpatient treatment program, 90-day inpatient treatment program, one of our intensive outpatient programs, detox and stabilization plan, or our Summer Sky Relapse Track.
Treatment Programs
Summer Sky is a top rated drug rehab facility that stands out among addiction treatment centers. We offer treatment programs for all types of substance abuse such as heroin use disorder, inhalants treatment, or alcohol use disorder. Highly qualified staff monitor you around the clock during the medical detoxification process. Unique therapy options such as pet therapy or equine therapy address both emotional and physical needs to help throughout treatment. We also utilize cognitive behavior therapy, mindfulness, assisted therapies, or support medication to help you fight the cycle of addiction. No two addiction are alike. That is why each treatment program is tailored to meet your individual needs, always using the best in addiction treatment clinical practices. Evidence-based treatment is a top priority.
Affordable Care
For many, the cost of treatment can keep them from seeking the help they so desperately need. Summer Sky will work with patients and their families to make care affordable. We accept all major insurances to offset personal costs and also offer some of the lowest treatment rates available. You are in good hands at Summer Sky, a joint commission approved facility for drug treatment. This is one of the highest certification drug rehabs in Waco can receive, ensuring that you are receiving only the very best in treatment care. Contact us today or visit our website at summersky.us for more information about our exceptional drug treatment programs.
