In the United States, alcoholism is a serious and ongoing threat. Sadly, it’s rarely a topic of discussion until it impacts someone you know and love. Exploring these current alcoholism statistics reveals the scope of the epidemic, and highlights the isolating, devastating struggle many Americans go through.
Troubling College Alcoholism Statistics
Alcoholism doesn’t discriminate. It can impact people of every race, gender, age, and background. All too often, however, heavy drinking in college is seen as a rite of passage. In reality, it can pave the way to lifelong addiction.
Consequently, over 58 percent of college students drink alcohol once a month, and almost 38 percent binge drink. A staggering 12.5 percent of all college students struggle with alcohol abuse or addiction. These numbers are quite representative of how socially acceptable binge drinking has become during these young adult years.
Alcoholism Frequently Leads to Liver Failure
Although liver diseases develop for a number of reasons, excessive alcohol consumption drastically affects the organ’s healthy functioning. In fact, almost half of all liver disease deaths are a direct result of alcohol consumption. Overall, one of the best ways to avoid liver failure or cirrhosis is by breaking free from alcoholism.
1 in 12 Americans Abuses Alcohol
Unfortunately, this statistic is surprising to some, but it shouldn’t be. Many people are in the throes of alcoholism while continuing to lead ordinary lives. Regardless, they aren’t living the fulfilling lives they truly deserve.
Furthermore, alcohol abuse can cause health problems and financial worries. Not to mention, it can lead to broken families and cause harrowing psychological problems. Alcohol abuse is no small issue and a large portion of the population requires treatment.
The Addiction Treatment Gap is Real
Of the more than 4 million individuals who receive addiction treatment in any given year, more than 2.5 million of them have an alcohol addiction. While this number is significant, it doesn’t represent the millions more who refuse to get help.
Overall, the gap between those struggling with alcoholism and those who get the appropriate help is staggering. We must address this treatment gap in order for those with alcohol addictions to get the necessary support for lasting sobriety.
Alcoholism Can Have a Genetic Component
Often, alcohol addictions appear in clusters within the same family or community. This is because addiction has a genetic component. Your DNA may make you more or less likely to struggle with addiction after consuming alcohol. However, there’s also a societal and familial aspect you must consider.
A staggering 10 percent of American children have parents who abuse alcohol. Consequently, this makes these children more likely to be exposed to alcoholism, consume alcohol at an early age, and suffer trauma in their lifetime.
These alcoholism statistics, while worrying, are still only the tip of the iceberg. If you fear addiction is a problem in your life, alcohol addiction therapy services make all the difference. At Steps to Recovery in Levittown, Pennsylvania, you can learn to conquer addiction once and for all. Start leading the life you deserve by calling 267.719.8528 today.
