A state-wide review of 20 years-worth of state-funded substance abuse treatment data, collected from 1992 to 2012, confirms a trend of prescription drug abuse across several age groups.
The data also shows many middle-aged Tennesseans prefer alcohol. Marijuana is the primary ‘high’ of choice among those in their 20’s and 30’s, but prescription meds continue to be the drug of choice across most age groups.
The Tennessee Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services, who released the findings, concludes Tennesseans are increasing their consumption of prescription pain medicine, regardless of age.
In 1992 Tennesseans who were in their mid-30s primarily sought treatment for an addiction to alcohol. Now in their mid-50s, alcohol continues to be the most frequently listed substance of abuse for these Tennesseans. This age group has increased their prescription drug use and decreased the use of alcohol and cocaine.
Prescription Drug Abuse On The Rise
