How common is substance abuse in young adults?
1 in 7 young adults has a substance use disorder. 1 in 13 young adults has an illicit drug use disorder. 1 in 17 young adults has a marijuana use disorder. 1 in 100 young adults has an opioid use disorder.
What causes addiction in young adults?
This can be due to a desire to experiment, community or environmental pressures, or mental health conditions. Young adults have some of the highest rates of alcohol and substance misuse, according to a survey by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).
Who is at high risk for substance abuse?

People who have experienced physical, emotional or sexual abuse or trauma are more likely to develop a substance use disorder. Others who have friends who use, or those subjected to peer pressure, may also be at a greater risk.
What age group is at the highest risk for all substance use disorders?
The majority of those who have a substance use disorder started using before age 18 and developed their disorder by age 20. The likelihood of developing a substance use disorder is greatest for those who begin use in their early teens.
What is the most commonly used substance among young people in the US?
Substance Use Among Teens Alcohol, marijuana, and tobacco are substances most commonly used by adolescents. By 12th grade, about two-thirds of students have tried alcohol. About half of 9th through 12th grade students reported ever having used marijuana.

What are 4 risk factors for addiction?
Certain factors can affect the likelihood and speed of developing an addiction:
- Family history of addiction. Drug addiction is more common in some families and likely involves genetic predisposition.
- Mental health disorder.
- Peer pressure.
- Lack of family involvement.
- Early use.
- Taking a highly addictive drug.
What is the most common age for substance abuse?
Drug use is highest among persons between the ages of 18-25 at 39% compared to persons aged 26-29, at 34%. 70% of users who try an illegal drug before age 13 develop a substance abuse disorder within the next 7 years compared to 27% of those who try an illegal drug after age 17.
What is substance abuse adolescence?
Substance abuse describes a pattern of substance (drug) use leading to significant problems or distress such as failure to attend school, substance use in dangerous situations (driving a car), substance-related legal problems, or continued substance use that interferes with friendships and/or family relationships.