Substance abuse is a major problem that affects people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds. However, different age groups are more susceptible to different types of substance abuse.

In this article, we'll explore the average age of substance abuse and provide a list of statistics about substance abuse and age groups.

How Common Is Drug Abuse By Age Groups?

According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, drug abuse is most common among young adults aged 18-25, with 23.5% reporting illicit drug use in the past month. However, substance abuse among adolescents and older adults is also a significant issue that cannot be ignored.

Research has found that early exposure to drugs or alcohol can increase the likelihood of addiction later in life.

In fact, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration reports that individuals who begin using drugs before age 13 are more likely to develop a substance use disorder than those who start using drugs at a later age.

On the other hand, older adults may struggle with prescription drug abuse or alcoholism due to chronic pain, stress, or loneliness. It's important for healthcare providers to screen for substance abuse among all age groups and provide appropriate treatment options.

Alcohol Abuse

Alcohol is one of the most commonly abused substances among people of all ages. However, young adults aged 18-25 are more likely to engage in binge drinking and heavy alcohol use.

According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), in 2019, 53.8% of people aged 18-25 reported past-month alcohol use, compared to 44.5% of people aged 26 or older.

Additionally, 32.7% of people aged 18-25 reported binge drinking in the past month, compared to 22.2% of people aged 26 or older.

Marijuana Abuse

Marijuana is the most commonly used illicit drug in the United States. According to the NSDUH, in 2019, 43.5% of people aged 18-25 reported past-year marijuana use, compared to 16.5% of people aged 26 or older. Additionally, 24.5% of people aged 18-25 reported past-month marijuana use, compared to 7.1% of people aged 26 or older.

Prescription Drug Abuse

Prescription drug abuse is a growing problem in the United States, particularly among young adults. According to the NSDUH, in 2019, 6.6% of people aged 18-25 reported past-year misuse of prescription drugs, compared to 2.8% of people aged 26 or older.

Additionally, 2.5% of people aged 18-25 reported past-month misuse of prescription drugs, compared to 1.2% of people aged 26 or older.

Opioid Abuse

Opioid abuse is a serious problem that has reached epidemic proportions in the United States. According to the NSDUH, in 2019, 5.6% of people aged 18-25 reported past-year misuse of opioids, compared to 2.3% of people aged 26 or older.

Additionally, 1.9% of people aged 18-25 reported past-month misuse of opioids, compared to 0.8% of people aged 26 or older.

Cocaine Abuse

Cocaine is a highly addictive drug that can have serious health consequences. According to the NSDUH, in 2019, 2.6% of people aged 18-25 reported past-year cocaine use, compared to 1.0% of people aged 26 or older.

Additionally, 0.8% of people aged 18-25 reported past-month cocaine use, compared to 0.3% of people aged 26 or older.

The Impact of Substance Abuse on Different Age Groups

Substance abuse can have a significant impact on people of different age groups. Young adults who engage in heavy alcohol or drug use may experience academic or occupational difficulties, legal problems, and serious health consequences.

Middle-aged individuals who struggle with substance abuse may face job loss, financial instability, and relationship problems. They may also be at an increased risk of developing chronic health conditions such as liver disease and heart disease.

Older adults who misuse prescription drugs or other substances may experience cognitive decline, falls, and other health complications that can lead to hospitalization or even death.

It is important to recognize that substance abuse affects people of all ages and can cause severe harm to individuals and their loved ones. Seeking professional help through treatment programs and support groups can be the first step in overcoming substance abuse and its negative impact on one's life.

Conclusion

Substance abuse is a serious problem that affects people of all ages. However, different age groups are more susceptible to different types of substance abuse.

Young adults aged 18-25 are more likely to engage in binge drinking, marijuana abuse, prescription drug abuse, opioid abuse, and cocaine abuse.

It is important to raise awareness about the dangers of substance abuse and to provide resources and support for those who are struggling with addiction.

References

1. https://sbtreatment.com/addiction-and-age-groups-guide/
2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5225546/
3. https://www.samhsa.gov/data/sites/default/files/WebFiles_TEDS_SR142_AgeatInit_07-10-14/TEDS-SR142-AgeatInit-2014.pdf
4. https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamapediatrics/fullarticle/2761302
5. https://www.hazeldenbettyford.org/articles/when-do-people-start-using-alcohol-and-drugs