A new report from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) reveals that alcohol accounted for the highest percentage of substance use treatment admissions in the U.S. in 2022, making up 35.5% of the nearly 1.5 million admissions. Heroin and methamphetamine followed, contributing to 16.9% and 13.9% of admissions respectively. Admissions were most common among individuals aged 21-34 (37.1%), while men comprised 65.4% of cases. Additionally, a significant portion of admissions—43.7%—were unemployed.

The report also highlights key trends in treatment types, showing that 41.5% of patients received non-intensive outpatient services, while 13.3% underwent residential detoxification. Criminal justice referrals, employment status, and attendance at self-help groups also played a role in admissions. This data offers a comprehensive picture of addiction treatment dynamics, emphasising the continued need for resources tackling alcohol and drug use.

More details can be found at Addiction Policy.