A shift has occurred in life expectancy due in part to addiction. According to Senior Living, in 1900 the life expectancy for a white male was 47 years and a white female was expected to live to age 49. The expected life span was much less for the African American population with black men living an average of only 33 years and black women living an average of 34. By 2000, those numbers increased greatly with the life expectancy for white males at 75 years, black males at 68 years, white females at 80 years, and black females at 75 years.
These statistics may get you thinking about treatment programs at Gulf Breeze Recovery. If so, call us today at 833.551.2304.
The Numbers on Life Expectancy
Many things impact overall life expectancy: war, disease, child mortality, natural disasters, etc.
In most developed countries life expectancy continues a gradual incline, but in the United States, that trend is not continuing. Life expectancy in the United States had been making a gradual increase. This was due to greater emphasis on eating well, exercising, medical breakthroughs, and ever-improving healthcare options. Just a few years ago, however, a shift occurred with overall life expectancy taking a downward turn.
In 2014, the United States overall life expectancy rate was 79 years old as shown in the Global Health Observatory data repository which has data maintained by the World Health Organization (WHO). The 2015 life expectancy was 78.6 years and in 2016 it was 78.5.
England, by comparison, has an overall life expectancy rate of 81.4 years, almost three years more than the life expectancy in the United States. Of the factors that are impacting today’s life expectancy rate, experts look at aging baby boomers, but England has those also. So why is the rate in the United States declining?
Overdose Deaths
According to the Centers for Disease Control, overdose deaths in the United States have increased from 16,849 in 1999 to 70,237 in 2017. That is a more than four times increase in deaths in less than 20 years.
Another factor, according to a CNN report, is that the suicide rate in the United States continues to climb, with a rate in 2017 that was 33% higher than in 1999. A disturbing report from the Centers for Disease Control states that since 2008, suicide has ranked as the 10th leading cause of death for all ages in the United States. Also, in 2016, suicide became the second leading cause of death for ages 10–34 and the fourth leading cause for ages 35–54.
Not all overdose deaths can be directly attributed to substance use, of course. Suicide occurs when hopelessness and the belief that life will never be better are overwhelming. Too often that hopelessness is provoked by addiction when people believe they can never overcome addiction or find health, happiness, and peace again.
The Need For Drug Addiction Treatment
These startling statistics make clear the need for effective drug addiction treatment. Is it something you need? Are you uncertain exactly happens in rehab?
Drug addiction treatment is a comprehensive approach to helping people overcome physical and psychological dependencies on drugs. It typically involves counseling, special medications, lifestyle changes, and a variety of therapies. Treatment can help those struggling with drug abuse in managing their condition and reducing harmful behaviors so that they can lead a healthier life. Addiction treatment should be tailored to each individual and their specific needs. Treatment plans may include individual counseling, group therapy, support groups, and coordination of other medical services.
The goal of treatment is to help individuals achieve long-term abstinence from drugs. A successful treatment program should address both physical and mental health issues related to addiction. With proper treatment and support, people with drug addictions can lead fulfilling and productive lives.
There are a variety of options for drug addiction treatment, including inpatient and outpatient programs. Inpatient treatment typically involves a stay at a residential facility with around-the-clock care. Outpatient services allow people to attend scheduled treatments while still living at home. Treatment centers typically provide medical care and medication management, as well as counseling and other therapies to help individuals overcome their addictions.
Get the Help You Need Today
Addiction is not hopeless. Recovery is possible. People can reclaim their health, happiness, and peace. They can again realize that they do have health inside.
If you or someone you care about, has an ongoing history of substance use and/or relapse, contact us at Gulf Breeze Recovery or call 833.551.2304 to speak to an addiction expert to learn more about our program that has helped so many people overcome their addiction and embrace life.
