For the purpose of this article, the phrase “alcohol and drug use disorders” refers to dependence on as well as abuse of alcohol and drugs.
It is unknown why alcohol and drug use disorders are higher among American Indians and Alaska Natives, but the sad fact is that statistics bear this out. More American Indians and Alaska Natives report incidences with alcohol and drug use disorders than other ethnic and/or racial groups.
Many explanations have been given as to the possibilities of why this is so. These include how both American Indian and Alaska Natives individuals and others within their groups and communities respond to problems and how they seek solutions.
Factors, practices, cultural influences, and other things indigenous to American Indians and Alaska Natives may play a role in the increase in alcohol and drug use disorders among these groups. Oftentimes, a member of an American Indian or Alaska Native group may not even be aware of how much effect these things are having on that person.
Even among communities composed of American Indians and Alaska Natives of the same tribe, diversity is still present. This in itself has been offered as an explanation of alcohol and drug use disorders within these groups.
The sense of belonging to a community is very prevalent among members of these ethnic groups. While this is normally a good thing, it may often be a reason for a member’s hesitating to seek treatment for alcohol and drug use disorders.
Drug addiction treatment however, is available for American Indians and Alaska Natives wishing to seek help for alcohol and drug use disorders. Programs can include facilities to assist in alcohol detox, which may be necessary before actual addiction treatment can begin.
American Indians and Alaska Natives seeking information on addiction treatment help in Alaska can be obtained by calling 1-800-559-9503 or by visiting our website at http://www.addictiontreatment.net. Please be assured that we will treat you or your loved one with the respect and honor for their ethnicity and culture that is deserved.
