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Substance use continues to be a major public health concern in the United States. Millions of Americans report using alcohol or illicit drugs each year, and many struggle with substance use disorders that can impact their physical health, mental wellbeing, careers, and relationships.
Understanding national substance use trends helps provide important context for the growing need for accessible, evidence-based treatment options across the country. While awareness around addiction and recovery has increased in recent years, substance use remains prevalent across all age groups.
Drug Use
- In 2024, an estimated 70.5 million Americans aged 12 or older were past year illicit drug users, representing approximately 25 percent of the population aged 12 or older. Illicit drugs include marijuana, cocaine, heroin, hallucinogens, inhalants or prescription type psychotherapeutics such as pain relievers, tranquilizers, stimulants, and sedatives used non medically.
- Marijuana remains the most commonly used illicit drug. In 2024, approximately 61.9 million people aged 12 or older reported past year marijuana use, accounting for the majority of illicit drug use in the United States.
- In 2024, approximately 5.6 million people aged 12 or older reported past year cocaine use, reflecting continued national prevalence.
- The number of past year heroin users in 2024 remains significant, with nearly 2 million individuals aged 12 or older reporting heroin use in the past year.
- An estimated 2.6 million persons aged 12 or older reported past year methamphetamine use in 2024.
- Among youths aged 12 to 17, illicit drug use remains a concern nationwide, with continued use of marijuana and misuse of prescription medications contributing to overall prevalence.
- Among youths aged 12 to 17, the rate of non-medical use of prescription type drugs continues to decline overall compared to previous decades, though misuse of prescription pain relievers remains present.
- The rate of illicit drug use among young adults aged 18 to 25 continues to be among the highest of any age group, driven primarily by marijuana use and misuse of prescription medications.
- Among young adults aged 18 to 25, non-medical use of prescription type drugs and cocaine continues to be reported, contributing to the need for early intervention and targeted treatment resources.
- Among adults aged 26 or older, illicit drug use remains prevalent, with marijuana continuing to be the most commonly reported substance.
Daily or near daily marijuana use continues to be reported by millions of individuals each year, reflecting a steady increase in frequent use patterns over time.
If you or a loved one is struggling with an addiction and a co-occurring disorder, call us today. We’re available 24 hours a day, seven days a week and can provide information on treatment programs, help with insurance and answer questions about the treatment process.