What financial impact does alcohol or drug use have in the United States?

The financial impact of alcohol or drug use in the United States is significant, costing billions of dollars per year. This vast expense arises from various factors, including healthcare costs related to substance abuse treatment, emergency services, criminal justice expenses, lost productivity in the workforce due to absenteeism or decreased performance, and costs associated with accidents and injuries linked to impaired individuals.

The substantial nature of these costs reflects not only the healthcare burdens but also the broader economic implications that affect society at large. This includes higher insurance premiums, increased law enforcement costs, and the societal costs of lost productivity in different industries. Understanding this financial burden emphasizes the importance of addressing substance use issues to mitigate the extensive economic repercussions they create.