The good news is that addiction can be treated, and that individuals can return to the lives they knew before their drug-using behavior made everything fall apart. Even better news for those who have a friend or loved one struggling with addiction is that treatment can be effective, even if the individual is not yet convinced of the magnitude of his or her drug-related problems.

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Drug addiction is a serious—and growing—problem. Its economic cost exceeds $80,000,000 in the United States alone, and it is an incalculable squandering of human potential.

Addiction ruins lives, destroys careers, tears families apart, breeds crime and corruption, and results in too many deaths among people who are too young to die. Addiction drains the will to live from its victims, and crushes the spirits of those who care for the addicted.

Abuse and addiction are being seen in populations that weren’t considered at risk a generation ago. Beyond the stereotypes of race and status, today’s growing segments of drug addicts include children in their early teens, executives and professionals, the elderly, and women.

Drug addiction is not confined to certain socio-economic groups or ethnicities. It is as prevalent in the suburbs as the inner cities. The number and type of drugs being abused has expanded, as well. In addition to marijuana, alcohol, heroin and cocaine, today’s addicts are abusing crystal meth, ecstasy and other “designer drugs.” Perhaps the most surprising new development is the growth in abuse of prescription medications.

Over the past two decades, there has been a slow but steady shift in the perception of addiction, away from the notion that drug users are weak and morally flawed. More and more scientific studies demonstrate that addiction is a disease—as serious and life threatening as cancer. And, like cancer, this disease is progressive and ultimately fatal, with no known cure. The only hope for those suffering from this disease is the potential for remission, which is only possible through aggressive and continuous treatment.

In situations like this, when everyone but the alcoholic/addict can see the problem, outside help may be particularly appropriate. Whether you are seeking help for yourself or a loved one, National Rehabs can match you with the right program, treatment center or intervention specialist for your individual circumstances.