Despite nationwide efforts to help people overcome their drinking problems, recent studies conducted by JAMA Psychiatry have confirmed the unfortunate reality: American people are consuming more alcohol than before. In fact, the study confirmed that one out of eight U.S. citizens currently suffer from one form of alcohol abuse. As part of the test, researchers supervised drinking patterns of 40,000 subjects in the periods of 2002-2003 and 2012-2013. Let’s take a closer look at what the JAMA study uncovered.
Who Is Affected the Most?
Among the projected 8.5% of the established population, the rate of alcohol use disorders climbed by a staggering 85% within the first period of research conducted by JAMA and a minimal 12.5% during the next stage. However, scientists determined that statistics were even grimmer amongst these groups:
- Alcohol use disorders have nearly doubled (92.8%) among members of the African-American population.
- Women have exhibited an 84% increase in alcoholism and alcohol abuse.
- The group with the most severe increases in these disorders is older Americans aged 65 and older, who exhibited a staggering 106.7% rise in alcohol use disorder in the periods of 2002-2003 and 2012-2013. 45-to-65-year olds suffered an additional 81.5% increase.
Alcohol Abuse Is Not Alone
Unfortunately, this increase in alcohol problems doesn’t just extend to alcohol abuse. JAMA also tracked people who are at high risk for alcoholism and high-risk drinking, consuming at least four to five standard drinks in a single day and at least one day that might include binging.
Alongside alcohol abuse, high-risk drinking has risen from 9.7% to 13.7% of the U.S. population during the periods of 2002-2003 and 2012-2013.
Seeking Treatment for Alcohol Abuse or Alcoholism
Alcohol withdrawal can easily be one of the most frightening aspects of healing. During the course of the recovery process, you will suffer from minor to severe symptoms that may include night sweats, hallucinations, fevers, anxiety, and sadness, but always remember that you can find the strength to overcome these problems. However, you must always seek medical attention when you have decided to cut ties with alcohol, as the withdrawal process can be notoriously dangerous. Never attempt to do this without the supervision of a trained specialist.
If you are suffering from a severe case of alcoholism or alcohol abuse, or have a friend or loved one who is coping with this illness, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our professional team of counselors and healthcare experts will help you endure the painful process of alcohol withdrawal and detox and guide you along the rocky road of rehabilitation. Soon enough, you will experience a faster and much more efficient recovery.
If you want to find out more about our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs or enroll in one of these programs today, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your leisure and your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how you can overcome your mental illness and take an extra step toward becoming a healthier person.
