Drug Abuse in the Metro: Light at the End of the Tunnel?

In the past week, the valley saw an increase in drug abuse.

As law enforcement continues to crack down on the problem, treatment centers are getting ready.

Treatment centers in the metro are currently meeting the perceived need; however, it is only a fraction of the actual percentage of people that need treatment for chemical dependency.

“The whole opioid issue including heroine has really been on our radar for several years,” says First Step Recovery Agency Director Mike Kaspari.

Last week, law enforcement spoke about narcotic and opioid overdoses in the metro.

It is believed that the recent overdoses may have been caused by a tainted batch of heroin.

But are these overdoses enough to scare abusers into finding help?

“There’s many times people tell us that they’re doing what they’re doing because they’re addicted or have some type of chemical dependency issue. And that’s why they’re doing what they’re doing to support that habit,” says Lt. Jason Nelson of Fargo Police.

Old habits die hard, but it doesn’t mean there’s not light at the end of the tunnel.

The drugs may give immediate relief, but its short lived, and leaves the abuser full of empty promises.

Nelson says, “Typically when we arrest someone with chemical dependency issue, we’re looking at the criminal aspect of things. That’s going to fall more into the courts hand with the sentencing and stuff.”

Whether it’s the court or a loved one who pushes the abuser to get help, First Step Recovery says all that matters is getting the person to a detox center so they can get the support they need.

Kaspari explains, “That external motivation is perfectly fine. People don’t have to be embracing the idea of treatment and recovery when they get here.”

As the saying goes, “you can lead a horse to water but you can’t make them drink it,” but Kaspari  says you can make them thirsty, “It’s really important to get them recognizing that there’s hope for all of this stuff.”

The Fargo Police did say that they deal with a lot of repeated offenders.

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