National Council Commends those who Seek and Provide Treatment

For facts on addictions and interviews with experts, contact Communications@thenationalcouncil.org or 301.984.6200, ext. 228

Note: September is National Alcohol and Drug Recovery Month

Addiction to alcohol and drugs is a chronic illness that ranks among our nation’s most serious and costly health and social problems. The good news is that treatment, prevention, and early intervention efforts yield positive outcomes, as evidenced in the federal government’s just released 2007 National Survey on Drug Use and Health.

The National Survey on Drug Use and Health, conducted among 67,500 people by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, reveals the progress that communities, families and individuals have made in reducing addictions among young people. The survey shows that cocaine use among 18-25 year-olds dropped 23 percent, while methamphetamine use among young adults fell by a third between 2006 and 2007. The level of alcohol use also dropped among those aged 12 to 17, from 17.6 percent in 2002 to 15.9 percent in 2007. However, among young adults ages 18 to 25, nonmedical use of prescription pain relievers has risen 12 percent. The level of current illicit drug use among those aged 55 to 59 has more than doubled.

“Advances in research have improved our understanding of addictions as an illness and have helped us make tremendous progress in treatment and care,” said Linda Rosenberg, President and CEO of the National Council. “Community behavioral health providers nationwide work hard to help those with addiction disorders lead productive lives. But we still have a long way to go. Parity must pass; private and public insurance must stop denying equal coverage for addictions treatment and recovery programs.”

As a partner in National Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery Month, the National Council for Community Behavioral Healthcare applauds the accomplishments of people in recovery and the contributions of treatment providers. Read real stories of recovery from addictions. 

Get current news, facts and figures on addictions.

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The National Council for Community Behavioral Healthcare is a not-for-profit, 501(c)(3) association of 1,400 behavioral healthcare organizations that provide treatment and rehabilitation for mental illnesses and addictions disorders to nearly six million adults, children and families in communities across the country. The National Council and its members bear testimony to the fact that medical, social, psychological and rehabilitation services offered in community settings help people with mental illnesses and addiction disorders recover and lead productive lives.