Alcoholism in Yakima

Alcoholism, also known as alcohol use disorder (AUD), is a chronic and progressive disease that affects individuals from all walks of life. In the city of Yakima, located in the central region of Washington state, alcoholism has been a prevalent issue for decades. However, with proper education, access to effective treatment, and a supportive community, it is possible to overcome this disease and lead a fulfilling life in recovery.

Statistics:

According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, almost 14 million adults aged 18 and older had AUD in 2018 in the United States. In Washington state, around 713,000 adults were estimated to have AUD in the same year. Research shows that the prevalence of AUD is higher in Yakima compared to the state of Washington.

According to a report by the Washington State Health Care Authority, in 2018, Yakima had the second-highest rate of alcohol-related hospital admissions in the state, with 365.4 hospitalizations per 100,000 residents. The state average for alcohol-related hospital admissions was 181.4 per 100,000 residents. This indicates that alcoholism is a major public health issue in Yakima.

Additionally, according to the Behavioral Health Barometer for Washington State, in 2018, Yakima had the second-highest percentage of adults reporting past-month heavy alcohol use (defined as binge drinking five or more drinks for men and four or more drinks for women on the same occasion on at least one day in the past 30 days). Yakima's rate was 20%, while the state average was 15.3%.

Treatment Options:

The good news is that alcoholism is a treatable disease. The key to success is finding the right treatment for the individual, as there is no one-size-fits-all approach. In Yakima, there are several treatment options available for those struggling with alcoholism.

1. Inpatient/Residential Treatment: This type of treatment involves residing at a treatment center for a specific period, usually between 30 to 90 days. It offers a structured and supportive environment for individuals to focus solely on their recovery. In Yakima, there are several inpatient treatment centers that offer evidence-based therapies, 24/7 support, and aftercare planning.

2. Outpatient Treatment: Outpatient treatment allows individuals to live at home while attending counseling and therapy sessions at a treatment center. This option is suitable for those with less severe AUD or for those who have completed an inpatient program and need ongoing support.

3. Support Groups: Local support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and SMART Recovery offer a sense of community and peer support to individuals recovering from alcoholism. In Yakima, there are several AA meetings available throughout the week.

Final Thoughts:

Alcoholism is a complex disease, and recovery is a journey that requires dedication and commitment. However, with the right treatment and support, it is possible to overcome this disease and lead a happy and fulfilling life in recovery. In Yakima, there are resources and treatment options available to help those struggling with alcoholism. It is essential to remember that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness, and recovery is possible.