Substance abuse refers to the misuse of prescription drugs, marijuana, alcohol, and other drugs. It creates negative mental health issues and impacts everyone involved. According to the CDC, most people suffering from substance abuse don’t recognize the behavior which leads to addiction. Addiction is fixable and recovery is achievable.
Who does substance abuse affect in the United States?
According to American Addiction Center,
• About 992,000 teens aged 12 to 17 suffer from substance abuse.
• Approximately 5.1 million young adults aged 18 to 25 struggles with a substance abuse disorder.
• About 13.6 million adults aged 26 and older are struggling with substance abuse.
• A little more than 1 million senior citizens suffer from substance abuse.
The use of alcohol and drugs often begins with experimentation during youth. Some adolescents are at a higher risk of substance abuse.
High-risk factors for substance abuse
• Family history
• Poor parental supervising
• Rejection of sexual orientation and gender identity
• Interacting with drug-using peers
• Low academic scores
• Childhood abuse
• Mental heath
• No or low connection to school
Opioid Epidemic
Americans often receive prescribed opioids for their discomfort after a procedure or accident. The risk of these opioids is a rising problem in America making it one of the leading causes of accidental death. According to the CDC, the number of opioid overdoses and different types of opioids have increased since they were introduced. Since 1999, opioid overdose deaths in the United States are six times higher and have led to 47,600 deaths in one year.
If you or a loved one is looking for recovery, you are not alone. 19.7 million Americans are battling substance abuse and addiction. Finding successful treatment that works for you is crucial for recovery. It’s never too late to look for help.
Get the support you deserve from a team that cares at Cornerstone Family Healthcare. For more information on our Addiction Services (MAT) call us at (845) 563-8000 today.
