The U.S. has been facing a substance abuse crisis for years now with overdose deaths hitting a new high in 2022. Two-thirds of Americans say either they or a family member have been addicted to alcohol or drugs due and nearly one in 10 adults has had a family member die of a drug overdose.
The Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF) has been actively working on this issue through its tracking polls. The July 2023 KFF Tracking Poll provides valuable insights into the perceptions, experiences, and challenges related to substance use and accessing treatment.
The KFF Tracking Poll delves into the public's views on the ongoing substance use crisis, with a particular focus on the challenges individuals face when trying to access treatment.
Key findings of the poll
The poll reveals that a significant portion of the public believes that the substance use crisis has worsened in recent years. This highlights the persistent concerns and the need for continued efforts to address the problem effectively.
The poll also aimed to understand the perceived factors contributing to the substance use crisis. Respondents were asked to identify the main drivers behind the crisis. Commonly cited factors included stress and mental health issues, ease of access to drugs, peer pressure, and a lack of educational resources about the risks of substance use.
Perhaps one of the most crucial aspects of the July 2023 KFF Tracking Poll was the exploration of barriers that individuals face when seeking treatment for substance use disorders. Financial constraints emerged as a significant obstacle, with a notable percentage of respondents indicating that the cost of treatment was a major barrier. Other barriers included a lack of available treatment centers, stigma associated with seeking help, and concerns about confidentiality.
Implications and future directions
The insights gained from the July 2023 KFF Tracking Poll have significant implications for policymakers, healthcare providers, and advocates working to address the substance use crisis.
The findings emphasize the need for targeted efforts to reduce financial barriers to treatment, expand the availability of treatment centers, and implement anti-stigma campaigns that encourage individuals to seek help without fear of judgment.
The poll also underscores the importance of comprehensive education and prevention programs. By addressing the root causes of substance use and promoting mental health awareness, society can work towards preventing the crisis from escalating further.
The July 2023 KFF Tracking Poll offers a comprehensive view of the public's perceptions of the substance use crisis and the challenges associated with accessing treatment. The findings provide a roadmap for policymakers, healthcare professionals, and advocates to address the crisis effectively. By addressing factors contributing to substance use, removing barriers to treatment, and promoting education, society can take meaningful steps toward mitigating the impact of the substance use crisis on individuals and communities.
