Native Americans and Alcohol Abuse

Native American communities are dealing with high rates of substance abuse and alcoholism. In fact, between 2001 and 2005, alcohol caused 11.7 percent of Native American deaths. Since then, the rates of substance abuse have risen. This is due to many factors.

New FBI reports state that Mexican drug cartels are targeting Indian reservations because there is a high rate of unemployment. The Native Americans are persuaded into trafficking and dealing the drugs to earn an income. That plus the fact that the reservations lack law enforcement makes them an easy target.

Native Americans are also among one of the groups that experience more negative consequences due to alcohol, according to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. There are more traffic deaths and DUIs in Native Americans than in other minorities.

Furthermore, there is usually little access to alcohol or substance abuse treatment in Native American communities. If you or someone you know needs treatment, Seabrook can help. Call us anytime at 856.455.7575