One in 10 U.S. adults was at one time in recovery from drug or alcohol problems, according to a new survey.
The new report, by the Partnership at Drugfree.org and the New York State Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services, shows that there are as many as 23.5 million adults in the U.S. who have at one time had issues with their alcohol consumption or drug use.
"These findings serve as a reminder that addiction is a treatable disease and recovery can be a reality," Steve Pasierb, president and CEO of the Partnership at Drugfree.org, said in a statement. "We are just scratching the surface here and more research is needed in this area, but we are proud to collaborate with New York OASAS in this meaningful process."
The findings were based on the number of people who responded with "yes" to this question: "Did you once have a problem with drugs or alcohol, but no longer do?" The survey included responses from 2,526 people ages 18 and older from 2011.
Among the findings:
- Twelve percent of men said they are in recovery for drugs or alcohol, compared with seven percent of women.
- Adults ages 35 to 44 reported being in recovery more than younger adults (ages 18 to 34) and older adults (ages 55 and up).
- The U.S. region with the most adults in recovery is the Midwest, with 14 percent of adults saying they're in recovery. The South, on the other hand, has 7 percent of adults reporting being in recovery; the West has 11 percent and the Northeast has 9 percent.
Just last year, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration conducted a study showing which states had the highest rates of alcohol and drug abuse. The study showed that Colorado has the highest rates of marijuana, alcohol and cocaine use.
If you or someone you know is struggling with a substance abuse problem and needs help, visit the SAMHSA website to find a substance abuse treatment facility near you.