In a concerning revelation, the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) released survey data on Monday, showing that nearly 49 million people in the US, aged 12 and older, grappled with a substance use disorder in 2022. This alarming statistic translates to more than one in six individuals facing such challenges.
The survey, which represented a significant portion of the American population, found that approximately 30 million people were battling alcohol use disorders. In addition, around 27 million people were dealing with drug use disorders, which included nearly 6 million individuals suffering from opioid use disorders.
A notable overlap was observed where about 8 million people were coping with both alcohol and drug use disorders. The severity of these disorders was profound, with more than one in five individuals categorized as having severe conditions.
Mental Illness and Depressive Episodes in Adolescents
The HHS survey also highlighted mental health issues, with nearly a quarter of adults suffering from mental illness. A concerning overlap was seen in 1 in 12 adults who experienced both mental illness and substance use disorders.
The data showed that mental health issues were not confined to adults, as nearly 5 million adolescents, or about one in five of those aged 12 to 17, had a major depressive episode in the past year.
HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra, during a briefing, pointed out that the opioid crisis remains one of the United States' most significant public health challenges. This year's report emphasizes the continuing struggles of millions of Americans, both young and old, with mental health and substance use issues, often concurrently.
The survey indicated a rise in substance use disorders, with an increase of approximately 2.5 million people from 2021 to 2022.
Alongside this, there was a troubling uptick in suicidal thoughts among both adults and adolescents. Factors contributing to these trends are varied, with some experts citing the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic as a significant contributor.
Despite these daunting figures, there are glimmers of hope. The survey noted a decrease in alcohol use among adolescents and tobacco use across most age groups. Additionally, a majority of adults who perceive themselves as having a substance use or mental health challenge consider themselves to be in recovery.
Drug Overdose Deaths and the Need for Treatment
The data comes at a time when drug overdose deaths are near record highs and millions are not receiving the necessary treatment.
President Joe Biden has proposed billions of dollars to bolster substance use disorder services and combat drug trafficking. The new data underscores the urgent need for additional funding and resources to address this public health crisis comprehensively.
As the country faces this daunting challenge, the call for substantial support and action resonates across states and communities, transcending political boundaries. This issue, as Dr. Rahul Gupta of the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy asserts, affects millions of Americans across the country, underscoring the need for a unified and robust response.
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