Drug and Alcohol Abuse in Wealthy Utah Neighborhoods

Parents in Utah with good intentions for their children will search out homesin upscale, wealthy neighborhoods hoping to avoid issues such as drug and alcohol abuse that is thought to be a problem in poorer communities. Unfortunately, often the richer areas are the ones where increased drug and alcohol use is seen.

Woes of the rich kid

Highly desired neighborhoods in Utah typically come at a cost. This is why many of the residents nestled in desired Utah neighborhoods are in a higher income bracket than the average Utahn. When the parents have more money, the youth usually do too. This increase of disposable income makes it easier for children to obtain illegal items and is often a major factor in increased drug and alcohol abuse among rich kids.

Pressures of life

Although most parents want their kids to excel, children of wealthy, upper class parents often have increased pressure to be successful in all things so their family can “be like the Jones’.” This intensifies the normal burdens that especially teenagers can have including school work, friends, sports, and relationships. Sometimes, drug and alcohol abuse are seen as a way for kids to escape the constant need to be perfect that can be pushed on them by parents and communities.

Identify drug and alcohol abuse

It may be hard for some parents and communities to admit that there is a problem with drug and alcohol abuse among their youth, but admitting a problem is the first step at resolving it. Reaching out to children who may have drug and alcohol abuse problems is important before they continue on a path that could end with criminal charges. For more information on help for youth with drug or alcohol abuse issues, contact a local rehabilitation facility. If children have already become entangled in the law, seek counsel from an experienced juvenile defense attorney.