Despite having some of the most rigorous drug policies in the world, the United States is still the global leader of illegal drug abuse and addiction. According to a recent study (comparing and contrasting 54,000 people from 17 countries), our nation boasts the highest levels of cocaine and marijuana consumption in the entire world as well as the highest rates of long-term tobacco consumption. (Keep in mind that we fall into the #3 spot behind Germany and Ukraine, regarding alcohol.) Overall, the numbers do not look good for our country. So, what exactly makes us the illegal drug epicenter? Let’s take a closer look and find out some more information.
High Rates of Cocaine and Marijuana Use
As part of the study by the University of New South Wales in Australia (and the World Health Organization’s Composite International Diagnostic Interview), researchers asked test subjects about their lifetime use of marijuana, tobacco, and alcohol. Ultimately, the groups discovered that 16.2% of American citizens have abused cocaine during their lifetime (greater than the 4.3% rate in New Zealand, the runner-up). Furthermore, the team confirmed that 42.4% of the American participants had used marijuana during their lives (contrasting with 41.4% in New Zealand, once again the runner up). (Even more interesting, both the U.S. and New Zealand pushed far ahead of the other 15 participants in regards to lifetime consumption of pot.)
A Boost in Current Usage
Likewise, the annual National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) has also confirmed this latest trend in the United States. In 2013, the study confirmed that roughly 24.6 million U.S. citizens (ages 12 and older) had experimented with illegal drugs at some point during the month before the survey. (That is approximately 9.4% of the entire country’s population.) Furthermore, the number of people who use illegal drugs has boosted by 8.3% (2002).
Although illegal drug use has dropped in certain areas, the NSDUH has confirmed an increase in marijuana users (5.8% in 2007 to 7.5% in 2013).
Seeking Treatment for Drug Abuse and Addiction
As much as we would dream of a world without drugs, illegal substances still play a major role in destroying lives across our country and the world. If you are suffering from abuse or addiction (or a form of dependency) related to one or more of these deadly substances, the time to take back control is now. Drugs do not have control over your life. You do.
If you, a friend, or a family member is suffering from a debilitating form of drug addiction, we at Asana Recovery are ready and waiting to help you at your leisure. Our team of trained healthcare experts and counselors are prepared to guide you through the difficulties of detox and withdrawal and can direct you towards living the happy, healthy life that you more than deserve. With patience and care, you can take back control of your mind and your body. While the road to recovery might not be an easy road to travel, we promise to help you every step of the way.
Take the first step to stay fit, healthy, and safe. If you are interested in one of our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how to overcome your drug abuse or addiction troubles today.