Long Beach CA alcoholism/ drug abuse

Long Beach is one of the southern cities in the state of California. With a population of 463,789 people, is the 5^th largest city in the state. Famous for housing one of the largest shipping ports in the world, Long Beach Port is the hub of the oil shipping industry. Other major industries that have led to the growth of the city are the aerospace and high technology manufacturing sectors.

Like any other city, Long Beach also has its share of problems with crime and drug abuse. Drug addiction in Long Beach, CA is not a problem that has started in recent times, but a recurring issue that the state government and the DEA have had to deal with over time. The citys proximity to the Mexican border is perhaps the main reason why substance abuse in Long Beach, California is rampant.

Methamphetamine is the most serious threat to the city, with high grade meth being available to young students and adults. The maximum numbers of incarcerated people and drug offenders in Long Beach are meth offenders. Meth is synthesized in homemade labs even in suburban areas, which makes it difficult to track and trace.

The North and West Long Beach areas are among the worst when it comes to drugs and crime rates. Areas like 7^th street and the western side of Freeway 710 are also notorious. The fact that crime rates and drug abuse rates go hand in hand does not help. More than 62% of all imprisoned offenders test positive for drugs which range from heroin to meth and party drugs.

Party drugs are sold to students and college going youth even in campuses, and this is a disturbing fact. Popular club drugs available in Long Beach, California include GHB, Ketamine, LSD, and PCP. These drugs are available through party spots and clubs in the city to partying adults.

Alcoholism and substance abuse in Long Beach also go hand in hand. The high conversion factor in regular users of alcohol and drug users is disturbing, given that more than 27% of all youth have easy and casual access to alcohol and illicit drugs. The trend for the growth of party drugs seems to have subsided considerably in the last few years, but the numbers are still significant enough to warrant attention.

Cocaine and other forms of crack are sold freely in many neighborhoods in the city. Most of these neighborhoods also report high crime rates. Cocaine is easily available throughout the state of California, and the southern regions are heavily supplied with locally made, Mexican, and Colombian cocaine which come in through the southern borders.

While the major drugs affecting a notable segment of the large population over time, students and young adults are being affected by illicit drugs and alcohol. Modest beginnings for students include a casual weekend at some party or gathering, while serious drug offenders begin with small things like marijuana and move on to serious drugs. Prescription drugs are also an issue and tend to be abused by people of all ages.

As seen above, Long Beach substance abuse statistics demand higher public participation and intervention.