Analyzing Troubling Drug Abuse Statistics
Drug abuse statistics merely provide a glimpse into the everyday reality of substance abuse for many Americans. Many people claim drug addiction is at its worst today. Is this true? How troubling is the problem of drug abuse in the United States?
Nationwide Alcohol and Drug Abuse Statistics
American drug statistics from the National Institute on Drug Abuse show the heavy burden we all pay for this big problem. Each year, alcohol and drug abuse cost taxpayers $137 billion in health care expenses. Crime, lost work productivity, and other social issues make the burden to American taxpayers over $600 billion each year. This is almost one-fifth of the country’s federal budget.
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According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), there was a slight increase in drug abuse from 2002–2012. According to these drug abuse statistics, 13% of Americans 12 or older actively engaged in drug use within 30 days before being surveyed in 2002. In 2012, the drug abuse statistics from NSDUH increased to 13.2%. Although this sounds slight, 0.2% accounts for an additional four million people using drugs.
Surprisingly, more people aged 50 and older are abusing drugs. This number more than doubled during that 10-year span. Even more intriguing, underage drinking decreased by nearly 5%, and DUIs dropped by 3% in the same period. This shows an “aging” in drug statistics, with younger people and drivers acting more responsibly.
Prescription Drug Statistics
Prescription drug abuse continues to be a big problem in the U.S. today. The National Institute on Drug Abuse and the Centers for Disease Control reports that prescription painkillers kill more people each year than all other illegal drugs put together. This problem stems from easy, legal access to these drugs. Other problems include doctor-patient trust, doctor shopping, and people overusing the ER for access to painkillers.
According to emergency room visit statistics, twice as many people visited ERs for prescription drug overdoses in 2009 than in 2004. In fact, prescription drug overdose is the leading cause of American overdose deaths today. An overwhelming 72% of these annual deaths are due to prescription painkiller overdoses.
What the Drug Statistics Mean to You
If you’re stuck in the cycle of drug addiction, you’re not alone. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, there are nearly 24 million Americans just like you. The key to a better life is rising these drug abuse statistics and getting the help you need.
In Southern California, Serenity Lodge provides a refuge for men seeking true recovery and a better life without drug addictions. Along with proven addiction therapy methods, we offer an array of beneficial amenities, including:
- 1,500 square foot gym
- Movie theater
- Professional recording studio
- Pool and sauna
- Golf and racquetball
- Massage, meditation, and nutritional, prepared meals
If you’re ready to stop being a statistic, call Serenity Lodge now at (855) 932-4045.
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