Nebraska researchers are focusing on the special challenges of preventing and treating drug abuse and addiction in rural areas.
Scientists are studying a host of issues among people who depend on drugs, including how community dynamics can limit treatment options. Most of the addiction research done so far has focused on urban areas. But rural areas face unique challenges, including available treatment options, transportation and substance use patterns.
Rick Bevins, director of the Rural Drug Addiction Research Center at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, said seeking treatment in small towns presents another big obstacle.
"Stigma is a major issue when seeking treatment when an individual is ready to seek treatment," Bevins acknowledged. "The challenges are different in a rural setting. Your neighbors may know."
Bevins pointed out researchers are working with people seeking treatment to help them overcome stigma and understand they can be a vital part of their community. The research center is funded by an $11.6 million grant from the National Institutes of Health to understand how to prevent and treat drug abuse in rural America.
Despite the challenges, Bevins noted researchers and people who work in the substance abuse community said smaller communities can be a vital source of support, too.
"Having family and friends and partners and the community really reversing it," Bevins explained. "Yes, we want you to be a healthy individual as a part of our community."
The research center's work also focuses on investigating the effects of prenatal alcohol exposure, the effects of parental alcohol use on kids in school and mapping transportation barriers in substance use treatment.