Addictive Pills in Boston Massachusetts

Addiction Statistics in Massachusetts

If you or a loved one is struggling with an addiction, you likely understand that recovery is a difficult and challenging process. Staying informed about the latest addiction statistics in Massachusetts can help you have a better understanding of what it takes to remain on the path to recovery.

Statewide Addiction Recovery Statistics

According to the state Bureau of Substance Addiction Services, during the fiscal year of 2017 in Massachusetts, just over 109,000 people were admitted to recovery facilities for addiction recovery. Of these individuals, nearly two-thirds were male. The most common age group of those admitted to recovery facilities included those aged 31-40, making up 30.9% of the people admitted to recovery programs.

Primary Substance of Abuse Statistics

In 2017, when Massachusetts residents were admitted to recovery programs and facilities, they identified the substance they had primarily been abusing before seeking treatment. The most common substance for which people were seeking treatment to stop using was heroin.

The percentage of people who identified heroin as their primary substance of abuse was 52.8%. The next common substance reported was alcohol, which was reported as the primary abuse substance for 32.8% of those seeking help. Additional substances reported included crack/cocaine (4.1%), marijuana (3.5%), and other substances (6.8%).

Understanding addiction and recovery related statistics in Massachusetts can help you or your loved one with recovery in many ways. It can be helpful to know where you fall into the statistics. It can also be helpful for you to review the statistics and know that you are not alone, and many people are able to successfully conquer their addictions.

Choosing to live in a sober living home is one way that you can help yourself continue to focus on your recovery without distractions. The Tharros House in Massachusetts can help you as you progress with your recovery. Contact us today to learn more.

Bananas for Sober Living in Boston Massachusetts

Nourishing Your Body During Recovery

Recovering from addiction can be a difficult process. While it is always worth it in the end, your body may need some time to adjust to the changes that sobriety brings. It is important to nourish your body throughout the recovery process. This includes eating healthy foods that can help restore nutrients in your body.

Three Foods to Eat for Nourishment During Recovery

Bananas – One of the best foods to eat while in recovery from addiction to alcohol or other substances is bananas. This is because people who have abused alcohol or drugs in the recent past tend to be low on magnesium and potassium. These are electrolytes which help to regulate your blood pressure, muscles, nerves, and heartbeat. When you have electrolyte deficiencies, you can experience weakness, muscle cramps, and fatigue. Bananas are a great source of both magnesium and potassium and can help you replenish your electrolytes.

Broccoli – Broccoli is another food that can help nourish your body while you recover from your addiction. Many years of substance abuse can cause lasting damage to your liver. In order to obtain maximum nutritional benefits from the food you eat, you need to have a liver that is functioning optimally. Broccoli is a food that can help cleanse and repair your liver.

Potatoes – Another great food to consume for extra nourishment throughout your path to recovery is potatoes. Potatoes are a good source for complex carbohydrates, which can help a recovering alcoholic escape the cycle of soaring and crashing blood sugar that they were used to experiencing while drinking excessively. Potatoes are also full of fiber and other nutrients and can help you fight off cravings.

While you are recovering from addiction, it is important to make sure that your body is being nourished and that you are receiving proper nutrition for your body to begin healing. Sober living homes are also helpful during recovery. Contact us at Tharros House to find out more about what we offer.