Drug abuse is a serious ailment that affects millions of people in the United States every year. Substance abuse affects not only the individual but those around them as well. For those who want to help someone they love, knowing the facts about drug abuse can help both of you on the journey to recovery.

A substance abuse disorder is defined as the continued use of a substance despite negative consequences. Abuse behaviors also include using a prescription substance in ways not directed in the prescription instructions. This can consist of increasing the dosage and/or crushing and snorting the medication. Substance abuse facts and statistics demonstrate how many people this dangerous public health issue affects:

• In 2014, 21.5 million Americans had a substance abuse disorder, according to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health.
• One of out every eight people who suffered from a drug abuse disorder also had an alcohol use disorder.
• Almost 8 million Americans had both a mental disorder and substance abuse disorder in 2014.

While these numbers are staggering, these drug abuse facts also demonstrate that if you or someone you love is struggling with substance abuse, you are far from alone.

Effects of Substance Abuse

The most devastating aspect of the drug abuse epidemic is the number of preventable deaths related to drugs. Substance abuse facts and statistics collected by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention show that in 2014, more than 2 million people died due to complications resulting from drug abuse. More than 47,000 deaths were due to overdoses, and more than 35,000 were due to motor vehicle accidents while under the influence. Alcohol-induced deaths numbered more than 30,000, and accidental death while under the influence occurred more than 100,000 times.

The facts about drug abuse make clear the severity of the situation. If someone you care about is struggling with substance abuse, early intervention can save a life.

Find a Rehab for Substance Abuse

The key to a successful and long-lasting recovery from abuse and addiction is a rehab program that is a good fit for the individual and their unique needs. BetterAddictionCare can help you locate the drug treatment program that is right for you.

Contact our client care specialists to receive guidance and support in locating a cost-effective treatment center near you. We can help you choose the best option for you in our national network of accredited treatment centers and can even help you coordinate transportation and insurance requirements. BetterAddictionCare will welcome you into our family and set you on path that will allow you or a loved one to get sober and start healing. Call today or fill out our contact form to get help now.