Thousands of people enter—and complete—County-funded drug treatment programs each year.
This weekend, hundreds celebrated their recovery and sobriety at an event sponsored by the County Health and Human Services Agency (HHSA) and its many prevention and treatment partners. The event also commemorates September as National Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery Month.
“Addiction does not simply affect the individual addict,” said Ron Roberts, Chairman of the San Diego County Board of Supervisors. “It affects children, families and the entire community. The County is helping people get the help they need to get sober and stay sober.”
Every year, about 12,000 people are admitted into County-funded treatment centers. Approximately, 10,000 are adults and about 2,000 are 18 years of age or younger.
Meth continues to be number one drug of choice among adults entering treatment, with marijuana being the primary drug of choice among adolescents.
“Improving the health and well-being of residents and communities across the San Diego region includes preventing alcohol and other drug abuse, providing treatment services and being aware of emerging drug problems,” said HHSA Director Nick Macchione.
Typically, about one third of people who enter treatment complete their program, one third drop out, and one third make some progress toward recovery.
“Substance abuse is a chronic, relapsing disease,” said Susan Bower, director of operations for HHSA’s Behavioral Health Services. “The good news is that it is treatable. I applaud all of you who are on the road to recovery and encourage you to continue on that same path,”
People with substance abuse problems can get help by calling the County’s Access and Crisis Line at (888) 724-7240.
