Addiction Q&A

Although the public is generally aware of addiction and its detrimental effects, there remains a truth-defying stigma about getting help and a poor understanding of the severity of addiction.

That's why William Perkins wants to make it easy for individuals with substance use disorders, and affected family members, to ask questions and gain understanding.

Over 25% of Americans die as a result of substance abuse. Individuals who use alcohol and other drugs die much earlier than they would if they weren't ingesting these substances.

Here are some other statistics:

♥  450,000 of Americans die from smoking each year.
•  85,000 Americans die from alcohol each year.
•  25% of Americans die from substance abuse.
•  40% of traffic deaths are alcohol related.
•  50% of homicides are alcohol related.
•  40% of assaults are alcohol related.
•  About 75% of New York State prison inmates report they were under the influence of alcohol or drugs at the time of their offense, committing crimes to obtain drugs, or selling drugs.
•  More than 22 million patients need alcohol treatment or drug treatment; only 3% get it.
$  Costs related to substance abuse in 2009: approximately $425 billion.

If you think that you or someone you care about has a problem with alcohol, drugs or gambling, it's important to know that the sooner help is obtained, the better the chances of recovery.

The first thing to do is see if there's an addiction problem. Answer the following questions - and be honest. You can answer the questions or the person you're concerned about can answer. There's nothing to hide; you're the only one who will know the results.

1) Has the person in question ever tried to cut down on his or her use?
2) Have people annoyed the person in question by talking to him or her about their use?
3) Has the person in question felt bad or guilty about his or her use?
4) Has the person ever used alcohol or drugs in the morning or broken the law to use?

Answering YES to two or more of the questions above indicates probable addiction.

The first step to recovery is to admit you alone are powerless over addiction. The second step is to reach out for help. There are many professionals waiting and qualified to help you and the people you care about.

If you'd like to become a credentialed counselor and help those who suffer from addiction, enroll in our classroom instruction or distance learning courses. Educational requirements can be completed in just six months.

Learn more about our services, including classroom instruction and distance learning courses.