Substance abuse is the overuse and dependence on a drug or chemical which causes adverse impacts on social, personal and professional well-being.
In the latest survey of national illicit drug use, Colorado had the nation’s highest rate of illicit drug use excluding marijuana. It was in the top 20 percent for marijuana use, cocaine use, and alcohol dependence by those 12 and older. Colorado was also among the top 20 percent of states for individuals reporting that they would like substance abuse help but could not get it.(1)
Substance Abuse destroys families and drains community resources. Prevention and treatment are crucial in maintaining healthy communities. Untreated substance abuse can lead to many other societal problems including domestic violence, unemployment, homelessness and crime.
For every $100 spent on the problems caused by substance abuse in Colorado (jails, prisons, emergency room visits, health care for the diseases caused by substance abuse), only $0.06 is spent on treatment or prevention. The average for other states is $3.70 per $100.(2)
Communities need to work together to address substance abuse and the underlying causes while taking preventive measures to stop the cycle of abuse. Many people are able to recover with the help of individual and group therapy, faith-based intervention, and certified treatment facilities.
1. 2007 Report from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services entitled State Estimates of Substance Use from the 2004–2005 National Surveys on Drug Use and Health.
2. A 2001 Report from U.S. Department of Health and Human Services entitled National Estimates of Expenditures for Substance Abuse Treatment.
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