Drug addiction is a devastating illness, for those afflicted, their friends and family, and for all of us as a society. In fact, the Office of National Drug Control Policy reported in 2007 that drug abuse and addiction cost American society nearly $200 billion in healthcare, criminal justice, legal, and lost workplace production and participation costs.

Considering that millions of Americans are impacted by drug abuse and addiction issues, the high cost of the disease should not be surprising. Not only do addictions lead to the need for expensive healthcare services, but healthcare costs for employees with addiction issues are twice1 as high. Drug addiction also leads to increased need for emergency care and rehabilitation programs. 

In the workplace, an estimated 500 million2 workdays are lost each year due to addiction issues, both drug- and alcohol-related. In addition, those living with addiction utilize only two-thirds of their capability and are three times more likely to be late for work. This can lead to the loss of employment and, worst-case scenario, jail time or time spent in long-term rehabilitation — both of which curtail workplace productivity over the course of a lifetime.

The strain of addiction on society also stretches to the legal system. According to one study3, a full 80 percent of offenders used drugs or alcohol, and nearly half of those in jail have clinical addiction issues. State and local governments spend millions each year in funds to combat substance abuse disorders within the legal system, including child protective services and corrections.

There is some good news, however.

Getting treatment for a drug addiction is not only beneficial for the health and welfare of those suffering from addiction, there's a financial impact as well. According to DrugAbuse.com4, "For every $1 that is spent on substance abuse treatment, $4 is saved in health care costs and $7 is saved in law enforcement costs." And once those who have recovered from addiction get back on their feet, they add economic benefit back into the workplace and vibrancy to society.

If you or a loved one work in the music industry and are in need of addiction treatment, resources and support, MusiCares' lifesaving addiction recovery programs and services may be able to help. Know that there is hope and recovery is possible — and together we can decrease the financial devastation of addiction on individuals and society.

How Many People Have Co-Occurring Mental Health And Substance Abuse Issues?

Sources:

1. Substance Use Disorders and the Role of the States
2. What Every Employer Should Know
3. Behind Bars: Substance Abuse And America's Prison Population
4. The Financial Toll of Addiction