3 Shocking Drug Abuse Statistics

You’re probably aware that drug use is on the rise in the United States. What you may not know is the extent to which drug abuse is rampant. Below are some eye-opening drug abuse statistics that might change how you feel about this problem, which has now reached epidemic proportions.

#1. Americans make up only 4.6% of the world’s population, yet consume 80% of all prescription painkillers.

The American Society of Interventional Pain Physicians tracks drug abuse statistics related to prescription painkillers. They claim more aggressive methods of treating pain has resulted in a ten-fold increase in medical opioids over the past 20 years. Prescription drug abuse is now the leading cause of death in 17 states, surpassing even deaths from automobile accidents.

#2. According to the New England Journal of Medicine, individuals who abuse prescription opioids have a 40% greater tendency to try heroin.

Heroin and prescription painkillers have similar properties and therefore produce nearly the same effects. However, heroin is often cheaper and more readily available than prescription opioids. As such, many people try heroin for the first time when they’re unable to afford or access their prescriptions. Heroin deaths are now on the rise, accounting for more than 10,000 fatalities in 2014.

#3. Drug abuse stats show detrimental effects on the economy.

The National Institute on Drug Abuse reports that alcohol, tobacco, and drug abuse costs the economy more than $740 billion each year. This figure accounts for the cost of health care, crime, and lost productivity. Some reports also estimate that drug abuse is a factor in at least half of all major crimes. Nearly half of all violent offenders are under the influence of an illicit substance when authorities take them into custody.

Easing these Drug Abuse Statistics

As these drug abuse stats show, illicit substances have the potential to affect nearly every aspect of our lives. If you or someone you love is abusing drugs, get help now by visiting our quality rehab. At The Hills Treatment Center, you can take advantage of the following programs to help beat your addiction:

• Detoxification
• Residential Treatment Program
• Men’s Rehab
• Women’s Rehab
• Partial Treatment
• Intensive Outpatient Program
• Sober Living Program

At our pet-friendly location in the Hollywood Hills, we do more than just help people beat addiction. We also provide support with life skills, job placement etc. to ensure your success once you leave our facility. You’ll receive a custom treatment plan that addresses the cause of your addiction and helps you remain drug-free indefinitely.

Seek Help from our Residential Treatment Program

Stop allowing your addiction to control your life. It’s possible to break your addiction by going to a quality drug rehab. Contact us at 844-915-0287, so we can get you started on the road to recovery.