Understanding Addiction

Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) affects over 14.5 million U.S. adults, with only 7.2% receiving treatment. It impairs control over drinking, damaging brain function, relationships, and health. This guide offers evidence-based insights, treatment options, and actionable steps toward recovery.

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Benzodiazepines (benzos) are prescribed for anxiety, insomnia, seizures, and muscle relaxation. While effective short-term, long-term use can lead to dependence and addiction. In 2023, 12.5% of U.S. adults used benzos, with 2.1 million misusing them (SAMHSA NSDUH Report).

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Cocaine, a potent stimulant from the coca plant, is used in powdered, crack, and freebase forms. Despite public health efforts, it remains a leading cause of addiction and overdose deaths. In 2023, 5.5 million Americans used cocaine, with 1.4 million developing a use disorder (SAMHSA NSDUH Report).

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Fentanyl, a synthetic opioid 50–100 times stronger than morphine, was originally used for cancer pain management but now drives the opioid epidemic. In 2023, 73,838 overdose deaths involved synthetic opioids like fentanyl, making up 70% of all opioid-related deaths (CDC WONDER Database).

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Marijuana (cannabis) is one of the most widely used psychoactive substances worldwide. With 48% of Americans having tried it, its use has grown with changing laws. As of 2024, 24 states and D.C. have legalized recreational marijuana, and 38 states permit medical use (Pew Research).

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Methamphetamine (ice, crystal meth) is a highly addictive stimulant that impacts the central nervous system. Typically used in crystalline form, it can be smoked, snorted, injected, or swallowed. In 2023, 2.5 million Americans reported using meth in the past year, a 20% increase from 2020 (SAMHSA NSDUH Report).

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Nitrous oxide (nangs, whippits, laughing gas) is a colorless gas used for anesthesia and pain relief, but its euphoric effects make it popular recreationally, especially among young adults. In 2023, 12% of U.S. adults aged 18–24 reported using nitrous oxide recreationally, with nangs becoming a growing concern (SAMHSA NSDUH Report).

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Opioids are a class of powerful pain-relieving drugs, including prescription medications like oxycodone and hydrocodone, as well as illegal substances like heroin and fentanyl. While effective for managing pain, their misuse can lead to addiction and overdose. In 2023, opioid-related overdoses accounted for a significant portion of drug-related deaths in the U.S. (CDC).

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Sleeping pills, such as prescription sedatives like zolpidem (Ambien) and over-the-counter options like diphenhydramine (Benadryl), are commonly used to manage insomnia and provide relief for those struggling with sleep issues. However, while they may offer short-term relief, prolonged use can lead to dependence, with 9 million Americans misusing sedatives or tranquilizers each year.

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