By Cheryl Splain, KnoxPages.com Reporter
MOUNT VERNON — City Council members acknowledged the problems of drug abuse and alcohol addiction on Monday night by proclaiming May as Drug Awareness Prevention Month. The issue as it relates to Mount Vernon and Knox County is significant:
*Knox County has a problem of prescription opiate and heroin abuse with 44 unintentional overdose deaths recorded between 2007 and 2012.
*More than 50 percent of high school students in Knox County report drinking alcohol in the past year.
*More than 50 percent of adults have a history of alcoholism or family history of problem drinking.
*Alcohol-related problems alone cost $746 per person each year in lost productivity, absenteeism, healthcare costs and crime and family related problems.
Treatment of substance abuse through various methods such as counseling, psychotherapy, supportive services and medication has been proven effective. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, behavior issues that might signal development of a behavioral disorder often present themselves two to four years before a disorder is present. Council’s proclamation acknowledges the significance of learning to recognize the signs of a substance abuse problem, implementing preventive measures and guiding those in need to appropriate treatment and recovery support services.
KnoxPages.com will publish stories throughout the month of May about the prevalence of substance abuse in Knox County, how it affects the community, and possible solutions available for the addicted.
