Showcased across sporting events and amusement parks, alcohol has become an unfortunately integral part of the society of Americana. Studies have shown that U.S. citizens are drinking more alcohol and (in a somewhat expected twist) spending larger portions of their income on this drug (yes, it is one). In fact, over half of our country seems to have an alcohol problem of sorts, whether it is an actual sickness or a nasty habit. Nevertheless, have you ever wondered which people tend to blow away the most cash to get alcohol? Which part of the country spends the most money on this drug? Let’s take a closer look at this situation and find out some more information.
A Massive Spike in Alcohol Use
As part of a recent study in the Journal of the American Medical Association, Americans have started to purchase and consume more alcohol at a steadily increasing rate. From 2001 to 2007, the number of alcohol users rose at an annual rate from 64% (2001-2002) to 72.7% (2012-2013). Even worse, the number of people who suffer from alcohol use disorder (a mental illness characterized by severe, uncontrolled intake of alcohol) rose by 50%. Additional statistics have also shown women, older adults, minority groups, poorly educated people, and low-income people are starting to drink more often.
Boomtowns for Alcohol Purchases
So, where do most of these alcohol purchases take place? As part of a recent study by 24/7 Wall Street (conducted by the Bureau of Labor Statistics), researchers determined that the biggest alcohol consumers live along the West Coast of the United States, with 4 out of the 5 top cities appearing in this region. Keep in mind that 3 of the cities stopped spending so much money on booze but have still retained the top spot.
Here are the top 5 places where people spend the most money on alcohol (based on the average cost per person):
- San Diego, California: $1,112
- Seattle, Washington: $986
- San Francisco, California: $875
- Boston, Massachusetts: $823
- Anchorage, Alaska: $788
Seeking Treatment for Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism
Alcohol is a nationwide problem that (in all honesty) does not appear to be losing steam, especially when you take a look at this drug’s popularity in bars, restaurants, and (shockingly) amusement parks. Booze has become as much of an American icon as New York hot dogs and football, which is not exactly the best prospect when you consider that millions of U.S. children are exposed to booze on a daily basis. The good news is that you can easily find a way to get a cure for your sickness, if you know where to look. With a little patience and love for yourself, you can find the help you need to battle alcohol abuse or alcoholism.
Are you suffering from a severe case of alcohol use disorder? Do you have a friend or a family member who is coping with one of these issues, as well? On both accounts, 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 breaking your connection with alcohol.