Addiction Center. Whether it’s a problem with alcohol, opioids, cocaine, or any other substance, addiction kills thousands of Americans every year and impacts millions more.
- Every year, worldwide, alcohol is the cause of 5.3% of deaths (or 1 in every 20)
- About 300 million people throughout the world have an alcohol use disorder
- About 88,000 people die as a result of alcohol every year in the United States
- More than 750,000 people have died since 1999 from a drug overdose
- Alcohol and drug addiction cost the U.S. economy over $600 billion every year
Data suggest 2020 could be worse—particularly because of Covid-19
Breaking the destructive cycle of addiction is complex and difficult, but it can be done. But it can not be done alone. It can not be done without outside help. As Albert Einstein is famously quoted in saying, “We cannot solve our problems with the same thinking we used when we created them.”
SAMHSA’s (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) National Helpline is a free, confidential, 24/7, 365-day-a-year treatment referral and information service (in English and Spanish) for individuals and families facing mental and/or substance use disorders.
There are a slew of available, free 12-step-based recovery programs throughout the U.S. within easy reach of almost everyone. They’re a great place to start the journey towards freedom. Addiction.com offers a handy meeting finder. The only requirement for attendance in any 12 step meeting is willingness.
One of the most reputable organizations that offer an abundant variety of resources to address drug and alcohol treatment is the the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation. Established in 1949 in Minnesota, the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation had its beginnings in a compassionate, holistic and forward-thinking approach to the disease of alcoholism. Today, the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation is recognized as the world’s leading nonprofit organization singularly focused on providing healing and hope to individuals, families and communities affected by addiction to alcohol and other drugs.
Give. Pray. Post. 