Additional Statistics

The numbers don’t lie—our nation is in the midst of an addiction crisis. Substance abuse, alcoholism, and pornography addiction are tearing families apart and stealing hope from millions. At Adult & Teen Challenge, we believe there is a better way forward: one filled with freedom, transformation, and joy.

This infographic highlights the overwhelming reality we face and underscores why our mission is so critical right now. The chains of addiction are growing—but so is our resolve to help break them.

What the Numbers Show Us:

• Nearly 1 in 6 Americans aged 12 and older have a SUD (Substance Use Disorder), more that 48 million people.
• More than half of people aged 12 and older have used illicit drugs at least once.
• 39% of young adults (ages 18-25) consistently use drugs.
• Alcohol is involved in nearly 60% of all SUDs, making it the most prevalent addiction in America, and causes nearly 178,000 deaths per year in America.
• Marijuana use accounts for 87.6% of illicit drug usage, and is the third leading substance people start with—after nicotine and alcohol.
• Pornography addiction is also on the rise, with millions of adults spending over 11 hours a week viewing explicit content.
• The rise in fentanyl use, a drug 50 to 100 times stronger than morphine, continues to drive overdose deaths nationwide.
• Fentanyl accounts for over 69% of all overdose deaths.
• Sexual addiction, often hidden and untreated, affects 6–8% of adults.
• More than 1.6 million teen students currently use e-cigarette and vape products.
• Nearly 30% of teens use e-cigarette and vape products daily.
• Approximately 54 million people aged 12 and older need substance use treatment, but only about 12 million of these actually receive treatment.

These are not just statistics: they represent real people. Families. Sons. Daughters. Parents. Friends. Every number is a cry for help, and at Adult & Teen Challenge, we are answering that call.

Join Us in the Fight Against Addiction

The need for Christ-centered recovery is greater than ever. Explore how you can get involved—whether through prayer, giving, or spreading awareness. Help us bring lasting hope and healing to those who are struggling.