Addiction is a disease that affects millions of people in the United States. Fortunately, treatment resources, such as in-patient treatment and sober living facilities, are available to help those struggling with drug and alcohol dependencies. However, a portion of people struggling with addiction don’t or are unable to seek treatment. But what are the numbers exactly? Here’s the breakdown:

According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 123.5 million people(12 years and older)required treatment for an illicit drug or alcohol abuse problem in 2009. Of the entire population in the US, this number represents 9.3% of people aged 12 or older.

However, among those struggling with addiction, only 2.6 million—11.2% of those who needed treatment—received it at a specialized treatment facility, such as an in-patient program. Other treatment options include hospitalization, an intensive outpatient program, sober living or counseling.

In 2008, 23.1% of those in treatment were being treated for alcohol only. Other major reasons for treatment included the following: 18.3% were seeking treatment for alcohol and another substance, 17% for marijuana dependency, 14.1% for heroin and 8.1% for crack cocaine.

In terms of race, 59.8% admitted to treatment were white, 20.9% were African-American and 13.7% were Hispanic.

Addiction can affect any age group. People in their twenties (ages 20-29) represented 29.2% of admissions, while those in their thirties (ages 30-39) represented 23%. Those between ages 12 and 20 represented 11.6% of admissions.

Addiction affects any age, gender and race. However, alcoholism and addiction is a treatable disease when connected with the right resources. For questions about treatment and sober living, contact us at A Fresh Start Sober Living.