Addiction Facts
FACT: In 2013, an estimated 24.6 million Americans age 12 or older were current illicit drug users, and approximately 60.1 million people were binge alcohol users. And in 2013, 9.9 million persons reported driving under the influence of illicit drugs, while nearly 30 million persons reported driving under the influence of alcohol.
FACT: In 2013, of the 20.2 million persons classified as needing substance use treatment who did NOT receive treatment at a specialty facility, 908,000 persons reported that they felt they needed treatment. And of these, more than 1/3 or 316,000 persons reported that they made an effort to get substance use treatment.
10KBEDS NOTE: There is always an empty bed somewhere!
FACT: The most common reason for not receiving treatment among this group of persons was a lack of insurance coverage and inability to afford the cost of treatment, in spite of their need, their recognition of the need, and their desire and attempts to get help. They simply didn’t have the personal financial resources, nor did their families.
10KBEDS NOTE: Our primary candidates for scholarship beds!
FACT: With only approximately 2 million drug and alcohol treatment beds in the United States and more than 20 million persons above the age of 12 needing treatment, there is an extreme shortage of beds available. And yet, on any given day there are still available beds in many facilities throughout the United States.
10KBEDS NOTE: Our goal is 10,000 scholarship beds by 2020.