HE SHOULD KNOW –
Jan. 25, 2026 – By David Stern – Addiction is an overwhelming problem. About 20% of the US population suffers from addiction to drugs/alcohol. Unfortunately, only 10-20% of those are receiving treatment. I have worked in this area establishing one of the first addiction science centers, later as founder of an addiction medicine practice.. As a boarded addiction medicine physician, I have personally witnessed our society’s treatment gaps and failures. Inadequate treatment degrades quality of life and contributes to deaths. Treatment gaps occur because of stigma, cost, inadequate resources, and ignorance. This piece is intended to help people with addiction and those who love them find the best care. Addiction (substance/alcohol use disorder, SUD/AUD) is defined as continued engagement in an activity harmful to the individual. SUD/AUD also impacts families, co-workers, friends and neighbors.
Anyone with addiction has complex issues with short- and long-term needs. Almost 40% of patients with SUD/AUD have co-occurring mental health disorders. From the outset, addiction, medical, and mental health problems must be treated coordinately. The later phase of treatment, after stabilization, addresses social determinants of health (SDOH). These non-medical issues profoundly impact recovery, including economic and legal problems, housing, safety, education, employment, and embracing family/community.
