Substance abuse has a significant impact in many ways. From violent crimes to child abuse and homelessness, abusing drugs or alcohol can have a lasting impact on your life and also of those around you.

This Rehabilitation Guide guide addresses the top 8 ways that substance abuse affects our society.

The Cost of Substance Abuse

The US government statistics show that diabetes costs society $131 billion annually. Cancer’s costs are $171 billion. The financial cost to society, including treatment, lost income, crime and accidents is $484 billion per year.

Poor Health and Death

These are the results of chronic substance abuse. Tobacco is a factor in 20 to 30 percent of cancer deaths. Tobacco, drugs and alcohol are a major factor in heart disease, obesity, and HIV/AIDs. For example, 50 percent of pediatric AIDs cases can be tired directly to drug injections or having sex with an injection drug user.

Automobile Accidents

Drunk driving and drugged driving are major sources of auto accidents that injure and kill. In more than half of driving fatalities, drugs, alcohol or both is a factor.

Violent Crime

FBI statistics show that more than half of all violent crimes are committed by substance abusers. These include rape, assault and murder. In addition, more than 60 percent of prison inmates are incarcerated for drug-related crimes.

Mental Illness

A clear link has been established between abuse of alcohol and/or drugs and the incidence of mental illness. Substance abuse has been shown to lead to depression and anxiety, and in extreme cases, psychotic episodes and paranoia.

Child Abuse

Statistics show that in 50 to 75 percent of neglect and abuse cases, substance abuse is a factor. These statistics have been compiled by child protective services in all states.

Low Birth Weight and Birth Defects

Smoking and the use of alcohol and drugs lead to significant prenatal and postnatal issues in many infants. Low birth weight, alcohol fetal syndrome and being born addicted to drugs are all common problems when mothers are substance abusers.

Homelessness

It is believed that about 30 percent of homeless adults became homeless in part through substance abuse.

As you can see, the effects of substance abuse are widespread. They affect most of us in one way or another. If you or someone you know has a substance abuse problem, effective treatment programs can help. Both residential and outpatient rehabilitation programs are available. Contact the substance abuse treatment centers in your area for more information on stopping the negative consequences of substance abuse in your life.