Drug Abuse Statistics

Drug abuse statistics effectively highlight the severity of the increasing seriousness of drug dependency and addiction in today's society.  These drug abuse statistics not only demonstrate the relatively easy availability of drugs but the serious need for treatment and substance abuse facilities.  Of particular concern is the correlation of the drug abuse statistics and the national trends in domestic violence and child abuse. 

Startling drug abuse statistics for the year 2007 indicate that more than 7.5 million residents of the U.S. required treatment for illegal drug use.  In addition to the number of citizens requiring treatment, drug abuse statistics further indicate that more than 6.2 million residents needed but did not receive treatment for illegal drug use. Approximately 70% of persons using illegal drugs made no effort to receive treatment for their dependency or addiction. 

If you or someone you know needs treatment for drug or alcohol abuse, the 24/7 Drug Abuse Helpline at 1-800-708-4156 can help.  Please call today for a free consultation and advice about an approved treatment center near you.

Youth Drug Abuse Statistics

One of the more alarming drug abuse statistics involves the non-medical use of pain relievers, tranquilizers, sedatives and stimulants which translate to approximately 2.5 million newly dependent or addicted persons per year.  The average age of persons illegally using these psychotherapeutics was 21.8 years old.  The average age of first-time cocaine users in 2007 was 20.2 years.  Approximately 8.5 % of high school seniors reported use of cocaine.  The increasing vulnerability of the young is dramatically demonstrated by these drug abuse statistics. 

According to drug abuse statistics, approximately 50% of youths aged 12 and older reported that it was "fairly easy" or "very easy" to procure marijuana.  14.1 % of this age bracket also reported that it was easy to procure heroin while 24.5 % said it was "very easy" to obtain cocaine.  Even more alarming is a report that indicates that 22.3% of children aged 12-17 said they had been in involved in a violent altercation or confrontation.  A majority of these confrontations were drug related.

As reported in 2007 drug abuse statistics, 3% of the total population aged 12 or older, or 7.5 million residents of the U.S. need treatment.  Of these 1.3 received treatment at a specialty center.  Conversely, according to 2007 drug abuse statistics, 6.2 million residents who needed specialty treatment did not receive treatment.  Drug abuse statistics do not reflect treatment provided at emergency rooms. 

After considering these drug abuse statistics, if you or someone you know needs free advice regarding their dependency or addiction problem, please call the Drug Abuse Helpline at 1-800-708-4156.  We are here to provide confidential assistance 24/7 and all calls are toll-free.