Introduction
Substance abuse is one of the most misunderstood problems in today’s culture. In fact, we live in a society that offers mixed messages, labeling some substances (alcohol, tobacco, and most medicinal drugs) “legal,” while others are considered “illegal,” or bad. Whether the substance(s) involved is legal or not, however, does not change the fact that people who have a problem with it are often in serious danger of damaging their health and losing the things that make them happiest in life.
Nearly 21.6 million individuals—or 9 percent of the population age 12 and over—fit the diagnosis for substance abuse. The problem is widespread and occurs in various social, ethnic, and economic groups, including:
- Men and women
- Adults, teens, and children
- Employed and unemployed persons
- People from all educational backgrounds
- People in all racial and ethnic groups
- People with varying incomes; and
- People from cities, towns, and rural areas across the nation
Even more people may not fit a diagnosis for substance abuse, but still have problems with substances, and they need help. This broader group fits into what are called substance use disorders, although statistics are not clear exactly how widespread this problem is.
Even though so many people from such varied backgrounds have problems with substances, many who suffer feel alone and ashamed. With so many individuals experiencing substance use problems—27 percent of U.S. citizens have had a substance abuse problem in their lifetime—it’s surprising that such strong stigmas are still attached to addictions. Fear of discrimination, lack of access to recovery programs, and denial all keep those with substance use problems from seeking the help they need, or leave them feeling confused about where to turn for help.
Professional social workers are an excellent source of help for people who have problems with substances, and for their friends, colleagues, and loved ones. Social workers can be of assistance in a variety of ways, including:
- Providing education about addictions and their symptoms
- Treating people through group therapy or individual counseling
- Directing people to self-help groups (like 12-Step Programs), peer education programs (at schools and colleges), and other sources of support
- Helping friends and family learn to support individuals in treatment for/recovering from substance use problems.
How Social Workers Help
Professional social workers can be found in schools, drug and alcohol treatment programs, mental health clinics, private practices, schools, health settings, child welfare agencies, aging services, and community agencies. By seeking their help, you can learn more about substance use and its treatment; as well, they can provide tip sheets and lists of resources to answer questions and help point you in the best direction.
Additionally, social workers in associations and public office work continuously to improve understanding of—and treatment options for—individuals suffering because of substances.
When dealing with substance use disorders, it’s important not to lose hope. Millions of people across the country have struggled with alcohol and drug problems. But with the help of professional social workers they are in recovery, leading productive, satisfying lives.
