Why Substance Use Treatment in Orange County is Crucial in 2023

Individual Utilizing Substance use treatment through our Individual Counseling Services at Orange County's Mariposa Center

What makes community access to substance use treatment in Orange County so important?

Recent research has shown that access to these services is crucial for healthy families and communities. Mariposa Center, a treatment and recovery center in Orange County, has seen firsthand the increased need for these services.

Substance Use is Increasing in Southern California

Substance use is the over-dependence or addiction to harmful or illegal substances such as alcohol, marijuana, opioids, and other drugs. To help community members who are living with these disorders, it is essential to have a clear understanding of the toll that they take.

For example, a study by the OC Health Care Agency found that the overall rate of drug and alcohol overdose deaths in Orange County increased by 82% from 2000 to 2017. The Covid-19 pandemic exacerbated these issues, with the California Department of Health reporting a 50% increase in the rate of drug overdose deaths and a 17% increase in alcohol-related deaths from 2019 to 2020.

A powerful synthetic opioid called fentanyl is also impacting local communities. Data from 2021 shows that more than 83% of opioid-related overdose deaths in California were caused by fentanyl, including more than 200 teens. 

In light of these statistics, it’s more important than ever to ensure that everyone has access to substance use treatment and recovery services, even if they lack the means to pay for those services themselves.

The Mariposa Center Approach to Substance Use Treatment in Orange County

Since 1977, Mariposa Center’s mission has been to provide substance use treatment and mental wellness services for vulnerable individuals and families in Southern California.

Mariposa’s programs combine proven practices and innovative approaches to ensure that each patient has the best chance at recovery, including rediscovering a healthy life beyond substance addiction. As a non-profit, Mariposa partners with local organizations and medical professionals to connect those in need with the necessary services.

“The need for substance use treatment in Orange County is growing, particularly among underserved communities. Our focus in 2023 is to make sure that everyone who chooses to take the first steps toward recovery has the resources and support they need to continue down that path.”

Dr. Krista Driver, LMFT, President & CEO, Mariposa Center

Mariposa has relied on donor support since the beginning, and that support has led directly to the healthy transformation of thousands of lives. The Mariposa team is privileged to see those transformations firsthand and is committed to providing the same opportunities in 2023 and beyond.

Learn how you can help Mariposa Center provide substance use treatment in Orange County here.

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