The Biggest Drug Problem in America: 3 Shocking and Sad Things You Didn’t Know About Alcoholism

Did you know that alcohol is the single most abused drug in the United States? A 2012 study from the National Institute of Health found that 7.2% of American adults have an alcohol use disorder. That’s more than 27 million people. Worse, about 5,000 Americans under the age of 21 die from an alcohol-related incident each year, including car crashes, homicides, suicides, poisoning, and more.

That’s not all. Here are just a few other shocking facts about this tragic illness.

You Won’t Expect Who Is Most Likely to Have a Drinking Problem.
Believe it or not, young men with a higher education are perhaps the most likely to drink. The most vulnerable people to drink are young adults between the ages of 18 and 29, while the least likely to have a a drinking problem are those who are 65 years old, or older. However, those who have a higher education have been found to be more likely to drink. What’s more, the percentage of men with an alcohol use disorder is higher than that of women, at 9.9%.

Withdrawal Symptoms Have Bigger Consequences Than You Can Imagine.
The withdrawal symptoms of alcoholism can be deadly. Though it’s uncommon, those who are long-term, chronic drinkers, or have had serious withdrawal symptoms in the past can suffer deadly withdrawal symptoms. Anyone who’s detoxing and experiencing such symptoms as a high fever, or tremors should see a family practice doctor immediately.

Alcoholism: a Progressive Illness.
Alcoholism is a progressive illness. In other words, people don’t just have one drink, and suddenly a flip is switched and they become alcoholics. Dependency develops over time. At first it doesn’t seem like all that big of an issue, but then there are more severe health problems, and more control is lost.

Alcoholism is a sickness. If you or someone you know is struggling with the illness, contact one of your area’s alcohol detox centers to find out how you can help them or yourself. If you have any questions about the illness of alcoholism, feel free to share in the comments.

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