We are living during a period of time where drug use tends to be glorified by popular culture and media. From TV shows to the top 40 trending songs, many elements of today’s culture normalize and sometimes even promote drug use. Keep reading to learn which drugs are the most commonly abused in the United States right now.
Legal Drugs- Alcohol, Prescription Pills, Marijuana, etc.
According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, around 14.5 million Americans over the age of 12 reported they struggled with alcohol abuse disorder in 2019. In the same year, about 4.8 million people over the age of 12 reported they were struggling with a marijuana use disorder. In addition, millions of people battle addiction with prescription drugs, from painkillers and sedatives to stimulants. Many of these drugs are still commonly prescribed today, making them accessible to those who may be predisposed to addictive tendencies.
Illegal Drugs- Cocaine, Heroin, etc.
In the same report from SAMHSA, around 1 million people over 12 years old are suffering from cocaine use disorder. Cocaine is a prevalent “party drug” that many people can get hooked on after trying it just once or a couple of times. When it comes to heroin, the numbers are lower, but there are still around 438,000 people who report that they struggle with heroin use disorder. While these types of substances may not seem like something the average person may try and become addicted to, it is crucial to understand that these substances may be more common than you think, especially in the party and nightlife scenes.
Drugs Harmful to the Body
Many substances can cause significant damage to the body if they are taken in excess. Drug or alcohol dependencies can cause chemical imbalances in the brain and result in psychological dependencies, which may cause you to go through withdrawals when you stop taking the substance. They can also negatively affect your nutritional health, causing various deficiencies and other health problems.
Opioid Addiction Treatment at American Treatment Network in Havertown, PA
If you or a loved one is struggling with substance abuse, we are here to help. American Treatment Network has locations in Havertown, PA, Dover, DE, and Newark, DE. We offer specialized treatment for people who may be struggling with alcohol or opioids, as well as provide mental health services. Reach out today to get started on your recovery.
