Recovering from substance addiction is a life-altering struggle, affecting not only the person battling it but also their loved ones and society as a whole. While the financial cost of addictive substances might seem manageable (for the time being), the broader consequences of untreated addiction are far-reaching and devastating. From mounting healthcare bills to eroded relationships and lost opportunities, the hidden costs can easily surpass anything you might imagine.
Unfortunately, if you’re in the throes of your addiction, you might not understand what the financial, personal, and social costs of untreated addiction are. We’re here to break these down and help you learn why investing in recovery is not only a sound financial decision but also a life-changing step toward a better future.
The Financial Burden of Addiction
No matter what type of substance you find addictive, be it alcohol, opioids, cocaine, or other illicit substances, the fact remains the same – the cost for these substances is wasteful and harmful. Unfortunately, if you’re battling addiction, you might be in active denial of how expensive it can be to maintain the cost of an addiction. Here’s what you might spend on substances alone.
Cost of Alcohol
Alcohol consumption can quickly spiral out of control, and because of its deadly withdrawal symptoms, can be one of the most difficult substances to quit. The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) provides a calculator that helps people measure their drinking habits and the cost of alcoholism.
Let’s say you drink an average of 10 shots per day, with $1.70 per shot if you buy your own liquor. In one year alone you can expect to spend $6,188.00 per year, or just over $515 a month. Toss in the cost of buying drinks at bars, having more than 10 drinks per day, and that number could easily increase.
Cost of Opioids
Studies show that the annual cost of opioid addiction is around $15,000 per person addicted to opioids, with more costs to taxpayers and families. Heroin, prescription drugs used illegally, and other opiates might seem to be a cheaper option than managing chronic pain with professional help. But, the cost of substances is only the beginning in the rapid descent towards addiction.
Cost of Cocaine and Other Substances
The United Nations provides a list of substances and their associated retail costs. Cocaine and crack cocaine addiction are some of the most devastating, with people using as much as 2.5 grams per day. With every gram worth an average of $120, according to the UN Drug calculator, the cost of this addiction is one of the most expensive.
This calculator provides information on retail prices for cocaine, cannabis, hallucinogens, opioids, and other addictive substances. Looking at the data, it’s clear that addiction can come with a hefty financial burden. But the cost goes beyond just the price of the substance itself.
The Cost of Untreated Addiction
Addiction wreaks havoc on more than just your wallet. Here’s a look at other costs of addiction that, when left untreated, pile up quickly.
Legal Issues and Incarceration Costs
For many, addiction translates to encounters with the legal system. Some of the many legal costs of addiction-related legal issues you might not be aware of include:
- Cost of bail
- Legal advice and representation fees
- Court costs and fines
- Cost of complying with probation requirements (e.g., drug tests, court-ordered treatment)
- Cost of GPS monitoring
- Cost of breathalyzer installation and monitoring
On top of this, you might lose out on work and precious time due to being incarcerated. While you might not end up in jail today, the ramifications of addiction can still have long-term consequences on your record and future. It’s important to understand that the legal costs associated with addiction can quickly add up and cause a significant financial burden.
Loss of Productivity and Employment
One cost of opioid addiction can be calculated by the average of wages lost from being incarcerated, overdosing, or simply being too caught up using opioids and missing work. Such a study in Virginia revealed up to $1,900 lost annually by habitual users of opioids.
It’s a scary reality that many people with opioid and substance use disorders face. Sometimes, despite wanting to go to work and keep a steady job, the physical and mental effects of addiction make it nearly impossible.
Healthcare Expenses and Emergency Services
Chronic conditions caused by addiction like liver disease, infections, heart failure, and overdose might lead to long-term medical treatment. Combined with frequent trips to the emergency room, ambulance services, medications, and other emergencies, healthcare costs can soar for those struggling with addiction.
Personal and Social Costs of Addiction
Beyond financial implications, untreated addiction profoundly affects your personal well-being. You can’t put a price on certain things impacted by addiction, such as:
- A healthy relationship with friends or family, which can be destroyed or damaged by addiction.
- Mental health, including increased risk for anxiety and depression.
- Physical health, with substance abuse leading to a range of negative effects – from heart disease and liver damage, to an increased susceptibility to cancer.
- Employment opportunities and job stability are also affected by addiction.
- Self-worth and self-esteem, as addiction can make individuals feel powerless and out of control.
Fortunately, as difficult as it is to maintain the cost of addiction, it’s possible instead to find someone who is willing to help. Recovery and addiction centers including inpatient treatment, outpatient treatment, and sober living homes can all help you start healing from substance use disorder.
The Investment in Recovery
While overcoming addiction might seem daunting and expensive initially, the investment in recovery can help save you or a loved one’s life. It’s also less expensive to invest in treatment, even in the short-term, than continue feeding the addiction.
Cost of Treatment Programs
- Inpatient Programs: These intensive centers offer 24/7 care and a structured recovery environment. Inpatient (residential) addiction treatment programs typically costs $6 -10K for a 30-day program and offers a level of support that makes this option life-saving for many.
- Outpatient Programs: More affordable and flexible, outpatient services generally cost $5,000 on average for a three-month commitment. Though less intensive, they combine counseling, therapy, and medication. They are a great option for those who want to get a hold of their addiction but also need more flexibility for life goals.
Therapy and Counseling Services
Individual and group therapy play critical roles in understanding triggers, building coping skills, and preventing relapse. Weekly courses often cost between $50 and $200, depending on insurance coverage. Of course, free veterans services and insurance, state or federally-covered insurance plans, and sliding payment options can help people get substance abuse and mental health treatment for free or with little cost.
Sober Living Homes
Sober Living Homes are an amazing treatment option that can make a difference for those seeking long-term recovery from addiction. These homes are a safe and supportive living environment for individuals in recovery to continue their journey towards sobriety while having access to resources and support within the home.
Sober living homes provide structure and accountability, as well as opportunities for socialization and community building with other sober individuals. Best of all, they’re affordable at between $800 to $2,500 a month, and make a world of difference in long-term recovery.
Choosing Recovery for a Better Future
Untreated addiction carries profound financial, personal, and societal costs that extend far beyond the individual. From lost productivity to fractured relationships and overwhelming healthcare expenses, the risks are far-reaching and dire. Yet, there is hope.
Investing in recovery programs, counseling, and support not only alleviates the immediate burdens of addiction but lays a foundation for lasting health, happiness, and financial stability. The long-term rewards far outweigh the costs.
Mark Gladden is a U.S. Veteran-in-recovery who has been serving the recovery community of San Diego for a decade as Founder and CEO of Present Moments Recovery, a leading addiction treatment program for adults in San Diego that also offers a specialized military program for veterans and a 1-year long comprehensive inpatient addiction treatment program. If you’re looking for help to battle addiction and live a sober life, contact Present Moments Recovery at (619) 367-4767.