Before considering treatment, it’s important to have a thorough understanding of how addiction, also called Substance Use Disorder (SUD), affects the brain. The National Association of Addiction Treatment Providers recognizes addiction as a disease with psychological and social components, not a lack of willpower or an acute, behaviorally-centered condition. Become educated about drugs of abuse and the statistics surrounding them, and learn how to tell when someone may have a Substance Use Disorder.
Addiction, or substance use disorder (SUD) is a serious social, economic, and public health crisis that is not adequately addressed in public policy or treatment delivery. It is a primary and chronic disease, centered in the brain, with psychological and social components.
The annual 'economic burden' of alcohol and illicit drug misuse in the US is estimated to be $442 billion.
Combatting the Stigma Surrounding Addiction
Making a few changes in how we talk about substance use disorders and how we perceive those who struggle from it can make a meaningful impact on those who need help. Learning the facts and having open conversations about alcohol and drug use and their consequences can reduce the isolation and internalized shame caused by stigma.
Understand Addiction
Find Treatment
NAATP’s treatment provider members, policymakers and payors leverage the association’s thought leadership, network and tools to drive meaningful change in addiction treatment and the behavioral health ecosystem.