Many studies over a number of decades have determined that in recent years, the number of persons incarcerated in the United States due to drug and alcohol addiction has increased dramatically. Between 1985 and 1996, the number of people in state prisons increased by an average of 7.8 percent. The number of regular drug users in state and federal prison is staggering. For example, 62.2 percent of them were incarcerated in state prisons, and 42.1 percent of them were in federal prisons.
The growing prison population of drug users and addicts has caused lawmakers and correctional officials to take notice. Over the years, these people have requested increased funding for alcohol and drug treatment centers in prisons and local communities. As a result, local and prison-based Alcohol and drug treatment centers have increased dramatically across the country.
Types of Addictions
There are many different types of addictions, but the most prominent ones are drugs and alcohol. Some addictions, like alcoholism are legal, while others, like drugs aren’t. But despite the legalities of both addictions, both alcohol and drugs often give people a one-way ticket to prison or jail. Although addictions like gambling and alcohol are socially acceptable in some circles, they still lead to personal and social destruction. Illegal or immoral addictions like gambling are still legal, but often lead to destruction.
Why Quit?
Quitting addiction or remaining addicted is a personal choice. People who are addicted claim emphatically that drugs and alcohol bring relief, so they obviously don’t want to quit. They enjoy it because it brings them some sort of relief. Since many people lose control with their addiction, some type of treatment often becomes a necessity for them. Undoubtedly, addicts pay a high price for their addiction in terms of damaged relationships, jobs, finances, social functions, and more. When under the influence, reality becomes distorted, and addicts get into trouble. On the brighter side, however, help is available from alcohol and drug treatment centers to those who seek it.
