Although there are still many misconceptions about drug abuse, addiction statistics make it clear that the problem continues to grow. Americans of all age groups suffer. Sadly, those who reach out for help are in the minority. As a result, many endure and die unnecessarily.
8.3%: The Number of Adults with an Alcohol Use Disorder Who Receive Treatment
Only 1.3 million adults sought out alcohol addiction treatment in 2015. This figure only represents 8.3% of those suffering from an alcohol use disorder. Addiction statistics show that 6.2% of adults over the age of 18 currently deal with this disease.
13,800,000 Individuals: The Number of People Whose Alcohol Abuse Goes without Treatment
It’s a common misconception that these are homeless individuals on skid row. Rather, they include parents, grandparents, professionals, the unemployed, and people from all walks of life. Some may be on the verge of becoming homeless; others are hiding their addiction and fall under the term “high-functioning.” They have jobs, families, and lives.
16%: The Percentage of Americans that Addiction Statistics Identify as Struggling with a Drug Problem
It’s sobering to consider that this figure includes those as young as 12 years of age and up. The drug that people most commonly abuse is nicotine, with alcohol following closely at its heels. Moreover, some folks struggle with multiple drug problems that include nicotine, alcohol, illegal drugs, and prescription medicines. Experts put the number of this group at about 50% or more.
3.6%: The Percentage of Adults Who Experienced Psychological Distress in the Last Month
Those suffering from a substance use problem frequently also present for dual diagnosis treatment. It means that they not only struggle with addiction, but they also deal with a mental illness. They may or may not have a diagnosis for it. When you consider that 63.3 million individuals sought medical help for a mental disorder, the possibilities are staggering.
75%: Number of Medication Drug Overdose Deaths Related to Opioids
Drug overdose deaths are rising steadily. Opioid painkillers such as OxyContin and others make up the lion’s share of medication-related casualties. Health experts suggest that 60% of drug overdose deaths now have to do with prescription medications. However, it’s difficult to tell which drug is the ultimate culprit because, in many cases, there are multiple medications involved.
There is little doubt that treatment for addiction is an urgent need that affects a growing number of Americans. If you’re suffering from a substance use problem, you don’t have to do so alone or in silence. At Pinnacle Peak Recovery, a team of dedicated rehab specialists works with you to overcome your disease and recover. Call 866-377-4761 today!