Prescription Drug Abuse Programs in Albert Lea

Albert Lea, a city located in southern Minnesota, has a population of approximately 17,790 people. The city, located in Freeborn County, has been affected by the nationwide epidemic of prescription drug abuse. According to the Freeborn County Community Health Assessment, in 2020, 8.8% of adults in the county reported misusing prescription drugs. This number is higher than the statewide average of 7%. In response to this issue, various programs have been implemented in Albert Lea and Minnesota to address prescription drug abuse.

Rehab Programs in Albert Lea, Minnesota:
1. Freeborn County Adult Chemical Dependency Services: This program provides outpatient and inpatient treatment for individuals struggling with substance abuse, including prescription drug abuse. The program includes individual and group therapy, education, and support groups. Freeborn County also offers a Drug Court Program for individuals charged with non-violent drug-related offenses.

2. Fountain Centers: This program offers a variety of treatment options for substance abuse, including outpatient and residential programs. The outpatient program includes individual and group therapy, family therapy, and medication-assisted treatment. The residential program provides a structured, supportive environment for individuals in recovery.

3. Mayo Clinic Health System in Albert Lea: The Mayo Clinic offers an outpatient Substance Use Disorder Program, which provides individual and group therapy, medication management, and support groups. The program also includes a comprehensive pain management program for individuals with chronic pain who may be at risk for prescription drug abuse.

Disorders Associated with Prescription Drug Abuse:
1. Opioid Use Disorder: Opioids, including prescription painkillers such as oxycodone and fentanyl, are the most commonly abused prescription drugs in Minnesota. Opioid use disorder is characterized by a strong desire to use opioids, difficulty controlling use, and continued use despite negative consequences.

2. Benzodiazepine Use Disorder: Benzodiazepines, such as Xanax and Valium, are prescribed for anxiety and insomnia and are also commonly abused. Benzodiazepine use disorder is characterized by dependence on the drug, tolerance, and withdrawal symptoms when use is reduced or stopped.

3. Stimulant Use Disorder: Stimulants, including amphetamines and methylphenidate, are prescription drugs used to treat ADHD and are also commonly abused. Stimulant use disorder is characterized by a strong desire to use stimulants, difficulty controlling use, and continued use despite negative consequences.

Facts About Prescription Drug Abuse in Minnesota:
1. According to the Minnesota Department of Health, in 2019, there were 490 opioid-related overdose deaths in the state, a 22% increase from the previous year.

2. The most commonly prescribed opioid in Minnesota is hydrocodone, followed by tramadol and oxycodone.

3. In 2019, 6.6% of high school students in Minnesota reported misusing prescription drugs in the past 30 days.

4. The use of prescription opioids among pregnant women has increased in Minnesota, with approximately 5 out of every 1,000 pregnant women using prescription opioids during pregnancy in 2018.

In conclusion, prescription drug abuse is a significant issue in Albert Lea and Minnesota. However, there are multiple programs and resources available to help individuals struggling with substance abuse. It is important for individuals to seek help and for community members to raise awareness about this issue and support those in recovery.