This document discusses addictions in the United States. Approximately 9% of the population struggles with addiction, with the largest numbers addicted to tobacco, alcohol, and gambling. Addiction is defined by chronic use, loss of control, compulsion, and continued use despite negative consequences. There are several theories around what causes addiction, including moral, genetic, and cultural factors. Treatment methods include self-help groups, outpatient and inpatient rehabilitation, and prevention efforts focus on delaying early alcohol use to reduce risk of future problems. Addiction is a complex issue that is debated, but can be prevented, managed, and treated.
2. THE FACTS
Nine percent of the U.S. Population is
addicted
Type of Addiction Number Addicted
Gambling 15 Million
Alcohol >15 Million
Tabacco 46.6 Million
Sex 9 Million
Exercise 3 Million
6. TREATMENT
Number of persons aged 12 and
Type of Rehabilitation Used older receiving treatment for
alcohol or illicit drug use
Self-Help Group 2.5 million
Outpatient Rehabilitation 2.0 million
Inpatient Rehabilitation 1.2 million
Outpatient Mental Health Center 1.1 million
Hospital Inpatient 858,000
Private Doctor’s Office 714,000
Emergency Room 487,000
Prison or Jail 374,000
7. PREVENTION
If a teenager drinks (more than seldomly- even if
experimental) before the age of fourteen, they ahve
four to five times more liklihood of having an alcohol
problem later in life
Also higer risk of addiction when there are addits in
the family
9. WORKS CITED
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