9 Top Addictions in America and Possible Treatments

In 2017 alone, nearly 19.7 million Americans battled substance addiction of some kind. That astounding number includes children aged 12 and up…

Of course, struggles with addiction include far more than just substance and alcohol abuse. Everything from pornography to video games can become serious additions that remove individual freedom and health.

Fortunately, despite the struggle, there is hope for addicts of all kinds. Here are the 9 top addictions facing Americans today, and potential treatment options.

1. Tobacco

Despite a common understanding of the health dangers of tobacco use, it remains one of the top addictions in America. If not the top.

480,000 American deaths occur each year due to tobacco use. That’s including nearly 41,000 due to complications from second-hand smoke.

2. Alcohol

Sadly, this legal substance is the cause of great personal and societal damage every day. Fortunately, there are some of the best rehab centers in the US available to help alcohol addicts overcome their dependence.

Alcohol towers at the top of the addiction list. Alcoholism ranks as one of the 3 leading, preventable, causes of death in American today.

3. Prescription Pain Killers

Odds are, you know someone currently addicted to prescription pain killers like Vicodin, Oxycodone, or Codeine.

It’s called the “opioid epidemic” for a reason. Most addicts don’t realize they are addicted until they try to stop using their prescription and experience withdrawals.

If you find it difficult to stop using a prescription pain killer, contact your doctor immediately.

4. Cannabis

Yet another legal intoxicant, cannabis use is widely debated as research indicates that nearly 10% of marijuana users become addicted.

According to the Center for Behavioral Health Statistics and Quality, about 4 million people are diagnosed with a marijuana use “disorder.”

5. Cocaine & Heroin

While these two are separate drugs, we list them together in part because of the extreme difficulty in overcoming an addiction to both.

Both cocaine and heroin work to alter the user’s brain pathways. This results in severe withdrawal symptoms and the need for both therapy and medication to overcome symptoms of withdrawal.

6. Video Gaming & Internet Use

Addictions to video gaming and internet use sneak up on many as they don’t initially appear destructive.

Sadly, over time, the overuse of either can lead to problems focusing, (ADHD) insomnia, damage to family and personal relationships, damage to performance at work and school, and problems with psychological functioning.

7. Sex

Internet addiction is strongly connected with sex addictions as access to pornography is easier and more prevalent today.

Sex addictions are used as a means to fulfill compulsions, escape reality, and more. They lead to even more serious issues that damage relationships, families, and personal lives.

Sex addictions can be treated successfully with therapy and rehabilitation methods.

8. Gambling

The rise of gambling addictions may in part be due to the increase in acceptance of the habit. Like other behavioral addictions, gambling slowly degrades mental health, families, relationships, and can lead to intense financial problems.

Therapy and other forms of rehabilitation are often needed.

9. Shopping

Shopping addictions are too often taken lightly but are a true struggle for those suffering. Withdrawals can occur and excessive spending can lead to severe credit card debt, hurt relationships, and financial ruin.

Therapy and rehab are available to those struggling.