Millions of adolescents and adults are impacted by Substance Use Disorders (SUDs) in the United States. SUDs result from addiction to drugs, alcohol or tobacco and can affect people from all walks of life and all age groups. SUDs are common, recurrent and often serious, but are treatable and many people do recover. Reaching a level that can be formally diagnosed often depends on a reduction in a person’s ability to function as a result of the disorder.
SUDs can change normal desires and priorities. SUDs occur when the recurrent use of alcohol and/or drugs causes clinically significant impairment, including health problems, disability, and failure to meet major responsibilities at work, school, or home. SUDs can also get in the way of relationships with friends and family.
While tobacco use and underage drinking has been steadily decreasing since 2002, the use of illicit substances has been increasing. Of the estimated 22.5 million people in the past year who needed treatment for substance use, only 12% received treatment at a specialty facility. The good news is that no matter how severe the problem may seem, most people with an alcohol or drug addiction can benefit from some form of treatment.
If you are struggling with a substance use disorder and need information, support and/or a referral to get professional help, there is hope.
To learn more and to get help, visit https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/substance-use-and-mental-health/index.shtml
