BATON ROUGE, La. – A recent study from the Louisiana Violence Experiences Survey (LaVEX) reveals alarming levels of substance abuse and mental health issues in the state. The 2023 survey gathered insights from over a thousand residents about their alcohol and drug use and mental well-being.
Anita Raj, the executive director of the Newcomb Institute at Tulane University, conducted the study. She expressed her concern about the rising number of working-age men facing these challenges. “It’s increasing everywhere, but it’s particularly high here,” she said. Rates of suicide and overdose deaths are climbing in Louisiana, highlighting a major issue that still needs urgent attention.
The survey’s findings are troubling: one in three Louisianans binge drinks, one in eight uses illegal drugs, and one in eleven suffers from severe anxiety or depression. Raj emphasizes the connection between mental health and substance abuse, especially among men.
Travis Frost, a Navy veteran, shared his experience with addiction. After being prescribed opioids for an injury, he quickly found himself addicted, eventually turning to heroin. He attributes much of his struggle to unmet mental health needs. “A lot of the drug use was to numb both physical and emotional pain,” he said. He lost everything due to his struggle, but after receiving proper treatment, he has been sober for over two years and is rebuilding his life.
Matthew Russell is currently in recovery at Avenues Rehab Center. He lost his family to overdoses and didn’t want to put his mother through more heartbreak. Despite losing loved ones, he found it challenging to make a change until he simply got tired of the fight. “I ain’t never been this happy in my life,” he said after embracing recovery.
Dr. Raj stresses the need for better access to mental health and addiction services in Louisiana. She believes a focus on prevention can make a real difference. If you or someone you know is struggling, remember that help is available. It can be tough to reach out, but it’s an important step toward recovery.
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