Alcoholism and drug abuse in Anaheim California

Anaheim, California is home to Disneyland, which attracts thousands of visitors every year. A city with a population of three hundred thirty thousand people at current estimates, Anaheim is the 10^th most populous city in the state of California. Located in a region that has seen a lot of development in recent years, the city has seen massive growth in terms of population and economy in recent times.

Figures and statistics indicate that alcoholism and drug addiction in Anaheim is a rampant social issue. A part of Orange County, Californias most prosperous region, there are many neighborhoods in Anaheim that are home to many drug labs. Its proximity to the Mexican border also ensures that there is a healthy supply of cocaine and marijuana among other drugs in the city. Marijuana is the most widely used drug in the region, and though there have been no marijuana-related deaths so far, it does open the doors for hard drug usage. Its easy availability also makes marijuana usage a critical issue, as up to 60% of all youth who try marijuana also try some other narcotic or psychotropic substance.

Alcoholism in Anaheim, CA is also an issue that needs to be dealt with. The young are the most prone to developing drinking habits. Figures of casual weekend escapades for high school and college kids have revealed that at least 55% of the youth consume alcohol. Of those numbers, more than half have also reported to have tried marijuana and other illicit drugs. About a quarter of these have tried cocaine, and more than 10% have tried other dangerous drugs.

Anaheim substance abuse is not just an issue with the young. Heroin and methamphetamines are popular adult drug choices in the city. It also does not help that even in places like Anaheim Hills, drugs of all forms are easily available.

Crime rates in the city are relatively low, and this is the reason why the growth rate of new drug users has been on the decline. The growth rates for marijuana and alcohol have come down over the previous years, with figures in 2002 being as low as 7%. This is owing to the efforts of city officials who have done a lot to initiate crackdowns on major drug dens and areas.

However, there are some things that need attention in the city. Prescription drugs are also being misused lately, with drug abuse statistics in Anaheim revealing that there has been an increase in the use of prescription drugs among the age group of 15-25 years by as much as 17%. The easy availability of prescription drugs is something that should be looked into.

Owing to the relatively peaceful nature of the city, there are less party drugs available. A collective effort by the state government and the city officials has seen alcoholism and drug abuse in Anaheim, CA come down greatly.

High drug addiction and alcoholism statistics not only affects the addicts but also stunts the growth of the entire city. This is why it is important we as citizens of our city, join hands with the authorities to fight and completely eradicate this disease from its roots.