Often the people who need the most help with drug addiction, don’t seem to find it. The news only seems to cover the celebrities and politicians who can afford expensive programs and have a support system that will help keep them out of trouble in the future.

According to the National Institute of Drug Abuse, “drug addiction is a complex, but treatable disease.” In 2006, there were for 23.6 million people (age 12 or older) who needed treated for a drug or alcohol problem. Only 2.5 million (10.8 percent) actually received treatment at a specialty facility or drug rehab center.

Leaving these people untreated actually costs society more than $181 billion annually. Left untreated, substance abuse and addiction can lead to violence and property crimes, prison expenses, health care costs (including emergency room), child abuse, welfare costs and unemployment.

Treatment programs often offer individualized plans. Unfortunately, there are sometimes not enough treatment facilities available. Plus, drug addiction can not be cured, but is an ongoing process with a high recitivism rate.

The National Institute of Drug Abuse has more information about drug abuse and how you can help yourself or others suffering from this disease.