Most people with alcohol and drug addiction survive : NPR

Findings from this study indicate varying levels of acceptance of non-abstinent recovery outcomes depending upon the substance in question. Participants endorsed not using methamphetamine as “very important” or “essential to recovery” (98%) but were much less likely to require abstinence from other substances including cannabis (65%), alcohol (80%), and tobacco (18%). Moreover, open responses indicated participants perceived “hard drugs” or methamphetamine, in particular, as the substance from which they need to abstain.

Our treatment approach combines multi-faceted activities, clinical treatment, participation in a 12-step program, and the support of a strong recovery community. The challenging journey of maintaining long-term sobriety often stirs up difficult emotions, such as loneliness, self-doubt, disappointment, boredom, and more. Recovery can also come with feelings of guilt over the damage done to oneself and others.

Substance use-related recovery outcomes

• On a national scale, among all rehab discharges in 2019, 42% completed treatment, and 22% were transferred to further addiction treatment programs.
• For instance, 80% of participants reported not using alcohol is “very important” or “essential”, 65% reported not using cannabis is “very important” or “essential”, and 18% reported not using tobacco is “very important” or “essential”.
• Maintaining sobriety over the long term requires the adoption of certain key habits.
• However, the vast majority of people who seek professional help and commit to a comprehensive treatment program do make positive strides toward recovery.

Overcoming these barriers can be challenging, but understanding them is the first step in preparing for a successful recovery. For more information about the recovery process, visit our articles on alcohol abuse statistics and alcohol recovery rates. According to American Addiction Centers, relapse rates for drug and alcohol use are estimated to be around 40-60% for individuals in recovery. This resemblance to relapse rates of other chronic diseases highlights the ongoing challenges faced by individuals striving for long-term sobriety. A comprehensive care approach is crucial in achieving successful recovery outcomes.

The Impact of Substance Abuse on Relationships

Individuals with addiction are often viewed as unstable and dangerous, and are much less likely to be wanted by others as friends or part of their families compared to people with other mental health conditions. Around 75% of people seeking recovery from a substance use problem achieve their goal, though it may take them some time to achieve full remission. If you or someone you know is struggling with drug addiction, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Recovery is possible, and with the right support and treatment, you can overcome addiction and live a healthier, happier life. Contact FAR today to learn more about our programs in North Carolina and how we can help you on your journey to recovery. According to a study by The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the National Institute on Drug Abuse, up to 75% of people who experience addiction eventually go on to recover.

National

However, although SAMHSA’s definition of recovery is not abstinence-based, in treatment and recovery spaces in the U.S, it is frequently interpreted this way. Further, many SUD treatment providers incorporate 12-step recovery support into program requirements, and the 12-step philosophy predominates the addiction recovery support community in the U.S 7, 8. Within 12-step philosophy, recovery is conceptualized as abstinence from all mind- or mood-altering substances, including FDA approved medications for the treatment of opioid use disorder 9. This abstinence-only approach is too steep of a treatment target for many PWUM 4.

Drug Rehab Statistics by Demographic

• Our team of specialists helps individuals navigate the recovery process and stay motivated.
• Relapse triggers can be events, emotions, thoughts, surroundings, people, and even feelings.
• Though there’s some truth to that, the problem is that these statistics are never put into context.
• These men had been alcoholics, but got sober through treatment, meetings, on their own, or a combination of methods.

Rates of substance use, addiction, and related issues vary by age, gender, ethnicity, and other demographic classifications. AE, KLR, and AF-B wrote the first draft; CO and HS substantively revised the manuscript. This research was supported by funding from the UK Office of the Vice President for Research for SUPRA and the Research Leadership Academy. Copyright © 2025, AddictionHelp.com The information provided by AddictionHelp.com is not a substitute for professional medical advice. View our editorial content guidelines to learn how we create helpful content with integrity and compassion.

According to SAMHSA’s National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), 70.3 million people aged 12 or older (or 24.9%) used illicit drugs in the past year. While more affordable or free options are slowly becoming more accessible, distance can be another significant barrier to treatment. Patients in rural or underserved areas may lack access to treatment or have limited transportation options. Support systems also improve accountability, motivation, and practical assistance like driving the addict to support meetings, outpatient treatment, or errands. Unlock the power of emotional recovery for lasting change with techniques, support, and professional help.

However, these percentages can vary slightly based on the type of substance abused, length of time since the initial assessment, age of the individual, co-occurring disorders, and family support. Each year, approximately 90% of individuals with substance use disorders (SUDs) in the U.S. do not engage in treatment 4. Further, people who use methamphetamine (PWUM) engage in treatment at particularly low rates 5.

At the end of the sober house day, addiction is a highly treatable disorder from which the majority of people eventually recover. And our recent study shows that in spite of numerous legal and social barriers, most individuals in addiction recovery go on to rejoin society and contribute to it in numerous meaningful ways. Additionally, the individual’s living environment plays a crucial role in their recovery journey. A stable and supportive living environment free from triggers and temptations can create a conducive space for healing and growth. On the other hand, an environment rife with stress, conflict, or substance use can hinder progress and increase the risk of relapse. While progress has been made in understanding and treating substance use disorders, significant gaps remain in access to care and support for those in need.

These sobriety statistics show there’s breaking free from the chains of addiction. But research suggests that nearly 20.5 million (75%) of those successfully recovered. Some of what we learned from this survey was indeed disheartening — people who have resolved a substance use problem, for instance, are worse off than the rest of the population in terms of health and employment. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Motivational Interviewing (MI) have been shown to reduce substance use and improve treatment outcomes.

Mental Health & Substance Use

Outpatient programs are most ideal for those who have already learned skills for managing triggers, who are trained to resist urges to use drugs and alcohol, and who are highly motivated to stay sober and abstinent. In response, thousands of studies have been conducted on the treatment of this enormous public health problem. Yet, the majority of individuals with substance use disorder achieve remission without formal treatment, and those who do seek treatment are typically the most severely affected.

Practical Ways to Prevent Drug Relapse

Furthermore, most participants had been on community supervision in the last 90 days (76%) and about half https://yourhealthmagazine.net/article/addiction/sober-houses-rules-that-you-should-follow/ of the sample lived in a rural area (52%). Three-quarters of the sample reported lifetime injection drug use (76%) and over half (57%) reported experiencing an overdose. Also, the vast majority (93%) of participants considered themselves to be in recovery. On the other hand, having a solid support system, better access to treatment, and medication-assisted treatments can increase the chances of successful recovery for addicts. Based on research from the CDC, 3 out of 4 people (75%) recover from addiction.