A person holds a glass of alcohol while resting their head in their hand, symbolizing the emotional and physical toll of alcohol use disorder.

Alcohol Use Disorder: Statistics and Treatments That Work

By  on November 3, 2025

Alcohol is a social activity. It’s something “everyone does.” So, why is it bad for you?

Alcohol use disorder (AUD) does not impact everyone who drinks alcohol. However, for those who drink consistently, binge drink, or have a predisposition for addiction, consuming alcohol can be life-threatening. Understanding when this applies to you, as well as what you can do if you’re at risk, can be life-saving.

At Victory Addiction Recovery Center, we understand the complexity of knowing when to do something and what steps to take. Our compassionate, non-judgmental counselors are ready to help you navigate the options.

Alcohol Addiction Statistics: How Many People Suffer from Alcohol Addiction?

Data shared by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism shows that 28 million people over the age of 12 in the United States have AUD. That is about 1 in every 10 people in the country. Over 16 million of those people are men, and over 11 million are women. Every race and age group is impacted. Data from the 2024 National Survey on Drug Use and Health found the following:

  • 17.6 million people in this group identify as White
  • 5 million people in this group identify as Hispanic or Latino
  • 3.4 million people in this group identify as Black or African American
  • 1 Million people in this group identify as Asian

It is not just adults facing AUD either. The same study found that 775,000 youths between the ages of 12 and 17 had AUD. That is made up of about 520,000 girls and 255,000 boys.

If you believe you could fall into these groups or that your loved one is at risk, now may be the best time to take action. There is help available to you.

Does Alcohol Addiction Treatment Work?

Alcohol use disorder treatment can be very effective. There is no cure for AUD, but with professional treatment and care, many people are able to stop using these substances and heal.

For success to occur, a professional alcohol addiction treatment program is necessary. That program must address the physical and emotional implications of continued use. This type of treatment may include:

  • Detox and withdrawal management. This initial step in AUD treatment enables your body to cleanse itself of the toxin. Though very challenging and with some physical health risks, it is necessary to go through detox to give your body and brain the support they need. Our medically monitored detox program also works to minimize withdrawal symptoms, making treatment potentially more effective.
  • Residential treatment. Residential treatment, or inpatient treatment, is an effective way to learn about your addiction and gain control over it. In your treatment program, you will learn how to identify negative thoughts that could be contributing to your continued use of substances and how to adjust to them. You will also learn real-world skills for dealing with trauma, anxiety, and stress.
  • Talk therapy. Whether you are in outpatient or inpatient care, talk therapy or psychological counseling will likely be a core component of your recovery process. This type of treatment helps you explore why you are suffering from this condition, what steps to take to minimize complications, and how to navigate the complexity of life without relapse.

In addition to these strategies, there are often opportunities for you to heal through supportive programs. At Victory, you’ll be able to engage in a wide range of treatment plans and strategies, including:

  • Group therapy to help you learn how to navigate the world with AUD successfully
  • Family therapy that enables you to work through the complications of addiction can cause in your family relationships, and to educate your family on your disease
  • Holistic therapy designed to provide support for healing your mind, body, and spirit
  • Medications may be used to help support the long-term recovery process
  • Ongoing counseling and support groups, including having a mentor, can also help you to remain on the path of healing

There is no single AUD treatment that works for everyone. Most importantly, this is a very personalized journey you’ll make with the support of therapy and a team of supportive professionals, family members, and mentors. Your recovery can start now. Let us work with you to create an individualized treatment plan that gives you the path forward you need.

Speak to Our Compassionate Alcohol Addiction Treatment Specialists Now

At Victory Addiction Recovery Center, we offer the helping hand you need when it seems everything else is working against you. Contact our team now to speak to our admissions team for more information or immediate help. We are available 24 hours a day to consistently provide you with help.