South Gate Addiction Treatment Centers

South Gate, California, residents can be at risk for prescription drug abuse and addiction, which are both on the rise in the surrounding Los Angeles County.

Prescription drug misuse affects 379,000 people in Los Angeles County, which accounts for about 5.2% of the population over the age of 18. Statistically, more men than women tend to abuse prescription drugs, and most people who abuse or misuse their prescriptions are between the ages of 18 and 39. In fact, people who are between 30 and 39 years old are the most likely to abuse drugs in this part of Southern California.¹

Even so, adolescents are increasingly abusing prescription drugs instead of other substances, such as alcohol or marijuana. This may be due to how prevalent prescription drugs, like opioid painkillers or anti-anxiety medications, are in most households in the United States.

In 2010, 22% of American high school seniors said they had abused a prescription drug at least once in their lifetimes, and 15% reported abusing these drugs at least once in the prior year. Los Angeles County has similar statistics—11% of 9^th graders, 14% of 11^th graders, and 37% of students in alternate schools, continuing schools, or community day high schools report misuse of these drugs.¹

It is important to follow a doctor’s orders when it comes to prescription drugs, and to get rid of unused medication if there is anything left over when treatment is done. If you are struggling with opioid abuse, it’s important to get help. Use the resources on this page to find the right rehab for you.

1. Los Angeles County Department of Public Health. Prescription Drug Abuse in Los Angeles County: Background and Recommendations for Action.