Observed during the third full week of March (March 16-22), National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week aims to inspire dialogue and offer education about the science of drug use and addiction. A number of surprising facts illustrate the seriousness of the issue today.
- Alcohol is the most commonly abused substance and the third most common cause of death in the U.S. Although legal, alcohol kills over 95,150 Americans each year.
- Thirteen is the average age at which children experiment with drugs.
- An estimated 60% of poor work performance can be tied to drug or alcohol use.
- 138 million Americans age 12 and over drink alcohol, and 20.4% of them have an alcohol use disorder.
- Common reactions to substance use include needing to consume more to get the same effect; substance dependency; painful withdrawal symptoms; high blood pressure and stroke; problems with the liver and pancreas; development of certain cancers; loss of motivation; depression and anxiety.
Visit MagellanHealthcare.com/about/bh-resources/mymh or call your program for confidential mental health resources.
Physical wellbeing: tips for maintaining a health body.
- Keep your physical wellbeing high on your priority list—it’s a foundation for thriving in all areas of life!
- Pay attention to how you feel and make adjustments as needed—rest when you’re tired and move when you’re restless.
