My Mental Health’s Solution
The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) latest 2022 statistics confirms that 46.3 million Americans or about 1 in 5 individuals over the age of 12 suffer from Substance Use Disorder (SUD). According to the CDC, the Opioid crises cost the US economy over $1.5 trillion dollars in 2022. Add to that figure the impact of alcoholism and other drug addictions and the cost easily tops $ 2 trillion dollars annually. Currently, drug overdoses have become the primary cause of death for individuals under the age of 50. More Americans died from overdose last year than all the auto accidents and gun violence combined.
Research from the Department of Veterans Affairs states that 40.6% of all individuals with SUD suffer prom Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. This number holds true whether the person is a veteran or not. Full Recovery is equipped to assist specific populations such as first responders and veterans grappling with SUD and PTSD. In addition to our PTSD program, we include a self-guided FDA and VA approved PTSD assessment.
Furthermore, studies from The National Institute of Health reveal that 85% of incarcerated individuals in the United States suffer from SUD. The monetary and societal costs of recidivism as a result of untreated addiction is enormous. Currently, 1 in 32 US citizens is under the supervision of the Department of Corrections. The US has the highest incarceration rate on the planet earth. The average cost per prisoner is over 54,000.00 per year. The need for affordable SUD solutions has never been greater.
The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) paints an equally troubling picture. Their most recent report highlights the prevalence of Substance Use Disorders with 284 million people dependent on illicit drugs and 300 million grappling with alcohol addiction. The Full Recovery virtual recovery system is EU compliant and available in English and Spanish.
Substance Use Disorder (SUD) is a complex and pervasive health issue that affects millions of lives worldwide. In America, its prevalence is a sobering reminder of the urgent need for comprehensive interventions and support systems. This blog delves into the alarming statistics surrounding SUD, shedding light on its impact both domestically and globally.
Understanding Substance Use Disorder
Substance Use Disorder refers to a chronic condition characterized by the compulsive use of substances despite negative consequences. These substances can range from alcohol and tobacco to illegal drugs and prescription medications. SUD disrupts not only an individual’s physical health but also their mental, social, and economic well-being.
Prevalence in the United States
- According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) conducted in 2020:
- Approximately 19.3 million adults (aged 18 and older) had a substance use disorder in the past year.
- Around 16.1 million adults had an alcohol use disorder, and 5.4 million had an illicit drug use disorder.
- An estimated 10.1 million people suffered from both alcohol and illicit drug use disorders simultaneously.
Age and Gender Disparities
SUD does not discriminate based on age or gender, affecting a diverse range of individuals. In the United States:
- SUD does not discriminate based on age or gender, affecting a diverse range of individuals. In the United States:
- Young adults aged 18 to 25 consistently report higher rates of SUD compared to other age groups.
- Men are more likely to struggle with substance abuse, but the gap is closing as women increasingly battle SUD.
Global Impact
The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) paints an equally troubling picture. Their most recent report highlights the prevalence of Substance Use Disorders with 284 million people dependent on illicit drugs and 300 million grappling with alcohol addiction.
Beyond the United States, SUD is a global concern:
- The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) estimated that 275 million people worldwide used drugs at least once in 2020.
- Approximately 36.3 million people globally suffered from drug use disorders.
- Alcohol use disorders are responsible for a significant global burden of disease and are a leading risk factor for premature mortality and disability.
The Full Recovery virtual recovery system is EU compliant and available in English and Spanish. Visit My Mental Health | FREE Award Winning Substance Use Disorder, PTSD and Lifestyle Recovery Programs.
The Ripple Effect
SUD affects not only the individuals directly struggling but also their families, communities, and societies at large:
Relationships are strained, leading to family breakdowns and emotional distress.
Workplace productivity decreases due to absenteeism, impaired performance, and accidents.
Healthcare systems bear the burden of treating substance-related health issues, diverting resources from other areas.
- SUD affects not only the individuals directly struggling but also their families, communities, and societies at large:
- Relationships are strained, leading to family breakdowns and emotional distress.
- Workplace productivity decreases due to absenteeism, impaired performance, and accidents.
- Healthcare systems bear the burden of treating substance-related health issues, diverting resources from other areas.
A Call to Action
The prevalence of Substance Use Disorder is a stark reminder of the urgent need for comprehensive prevention, intervention, and support efforts. Addressing SUD requires a multi-faceted approach involving education, policy changes, access to affordable treatment, and the destigmatizing of addiction.
By understanding the scale of the problem, we can collectively work towards effective solutions that help individuals regain control of their lives. It’s crucial to remember that behind every statistic lies a person in need of compassion, understanding, and a pathway to recovery.
If you or someone you know is struggling with substance use, seeking help is a sign of strength. Reach out to local support services, helplines, or medical professionals who can guide you towards the right resources and treatment options. Remember, recovery is possible, and no one has to face the journey alone.
My Mental Health can help go to mymentalhealth.org and download our virtual application and find the help you need.
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Reference:
https://www.samhsa.gov/data/release/2020-national-survey-drug-use-and-health-nsduh-releases
United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (unodc.org)
Directions to NIDA Headquarters | National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) (nih.gov)