Common are substance-related disorders
How common are substance-related disorders? What populations are most at risk? What factors are most important to consider for preventing substance use disorders?
Sample Solution
Substance-related disorders are a major public health problem. They are the leading cause of preventable death among people aged 15-24 years old. In 2019, an estimated 20.4 million adults in the United States had a substance use disorder, including 14.4 million with alcohol use disorder and 6.2 million with illicit drug use disorder.Full Answer Section
What populations are most at risk? Some populations are more at risk for substance use disorders than others. These include:- Young people: People aged 18-25 years old are more likely to use substances than older adults.
- People with mental health disorders: People with mental health disorders are more likely to use substances than people without mental health disorders.
- People who have been exposed to trauma: People who have been exposed to trauma, such as abuse or neglect, are more likely to use substances.
- People who live in poverty: People who live in poverty are more likely to use substances.
- People who have access to substances: People who have easy access to substances, such as alcohol or tobacco, are more likely to use them.
- Genetics: Some people are more genetically predisposed to developing substance use disorders than others.
- Environment: People who grow up in environments where substance use is common are more likely to use substances themselves.
- Trauma: People who have experienced trauma are more likely to use substances.
- Mental health disorders: People with mental health disorders are more likely to use substances.
- Peer pressure: People who are pressured by their peers to use substances are more likely to use them.
- Early intervention: Early intervention programs can help to identify and treat people who are at risk for developing substance use disorders.
- Education: Education programs can teach people about the risks of substance use and how to avoid them.
- Parental involvement: Parents can play a role in preventing substance use by talking to their children about the risks of substance use and setting clear rules about substance use.
- Community-based programs: Community-based programs can provide support and resources to people who are at risk for developing substance use disorders.