Addiction (Drugs & Alcohol)

Overview

Douglas County offers resources for all types of addiction, recovery and treatment. Find out what’s available to you using the resources listed on this page. Contact us if you don’t see what you’re looking for. See below for statistic information related to alcohol addiction, marijuana use, methamphetamines and how young addiction can start.

National Statistics

  • Addiction increased from 6 percent in 2013 to 12 percent in 2016.
  • The 2009 Youth Risk Behavior Survey discovered the following (Youth Risk Behavior Survey, 2009):
    • 42 percent drank some amount of alcohol
    • 24 percent binge drank
    • 10 percent drove after drinking alcohol
    • 28 percent rode with a driver who had been drinking alcohol
  • In the 1970s, the THC (main active ingredient) in marijuana was less than 1 percent; today the concentrations is 13-33 percent (Office of National Drug Control Policy, Marijuana Myths and Facts, 2003). A new study shows smoking marijuana is associated with a 40 percent increase risk of psychosis, and the risk is greater among regular and frequent users (AboveTheInfluence.com).

Local Statistics

  • According to the Nevada Middle School Youth Risk Behavior Survey in Douglas County (2009), 31 percent of youth reported they had their drink of alcohol (defined as more than a few sips) before they were 13, and 45 percent of youth reported they have ever drank.
  • In 2001, Nevada led the nation in methamphetamine use; statewide efforts and local coalition efforts have contributed to this drop through awareness, education and environmental strategies.