More than 1 in 6 US adults and adolescents had a substance use disorder in 2022, federal survey finds

According to recent data released by the US Department of Health and Human Services, approximately 49 million individuals aged 12 and older in the United States, which is more than 1 in 6 people, had a substance use disorder in 2022. Out of this number, around 30 million had an alcohol use disorder, while 27 million had a drug use disorder, which included about 6 million with an opioid use disorder. The survey further revealed that about 8 million individuals had both alcohol and drug use disorders, with over 1 in 5 people considered to have severe substance use disorders.

In addition to substance use disorders, the survey also found that nearly a quarter of adults experienced mental illnesses, with 1 in 12 individuals experiencing both mental illness and substance use disorders. Among adolescents aged 12 to 17, almost 5 million had experienced a major depressive episode in the past year, which equates to about 1 in 5 adolescents. HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra discussed the report, stating that it highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by millions of Americans, young and old, with regards to mental health and substance use. He reiterated that the opioid crisis remained a significant public health issue in the country.

The data presented in the report is derived from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, an annual survey conducted by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Substance use disorders have been increasing in prevalence, with approximately 2.5 million more individuals experiencing them in 2022 compared to the previous year. The survey also revealed a rise in suicidal thoughts among both adults and adolescents.

Miriam Delphin-Rittmon, Assistant Secretary for Mental Health and Substance Use at HHS and leader of SAMHSA, explained that various factors contribute to these trends, including the lingering effects of the pandemic. Despite the challenges, some positive trends were identified, such as a decrease in alcohol use among adolescents and tobacco use across different age groups. Additionally, most adults in recovery from substance use or mental health challenges perceive themselves as being in recovery.

However, drug overdose deaths remain at high levels, and millions of individuals are not receiving treatment. In response to the data, President Joe Biden has requested significant funding to strengthen substance use disorder services and combat drug trafficking. Advocates emphasize the need for Congress to provide the requested funding, highlighting that the public health crisis affects people in every state nationwide.