Helping People Access Treatment

At the Addiction Treatment Gap, our mission is to bridge the divide between those who recognize they have a substance use problem and the treatment they need. We are dedicated to supporting the thousands of individuals who are seeking help but are unsure how to proceed or have encountered obstacles in their journey to recovery.

Our Focus

While the vast majority of the millions of Americans who meet the criteria for a substance use disorder (SUD) are not ready or willing to seek treatment—often due to a mental “blind spot” that prevents them from acknowledging the damage their behavior is causing—there is a significant group of individuals who do recognize their problem and want help. These individuals are the focus of our efforts.

Our mission is to ensure that everyone who seeks help for addiction has access to the care they need, regardless of their current funding situation.

According to the latest National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), approximately 5.3 percent of adults with an SUD in the past year—an estimated 2.1 million people—either sought treatment or believed they should seek treatment but did not.

These are the people we aim to help: those who want to break free from the grip of substance use but face barriers in accessing the necessary treatment.

Overcoming Barriers

The barriers to treatment can be varied and complex. Some may include:

  • Lack of information: Not knowing where to start or how to navigate the treatment system.
  • Financial constraints: The high cost of treatment and lack of insurance coverage.
  • Stigma: Fear of being judged or facing discrimination.
  • Logistical issues: Difficulty accessing treatment centers due to location, transportation, or scheduling conflicts.
  • Emotional and psychological obstacles: Fear of the unknown, shame, and guilt.

What We Do

The Addiction Gap provides resources, guidance, and support to help individuals overcome these barriers. We offer:

  • Reaching out: By making as many addiction treatment programs aware of our readiness to assist all those who were denied admission, we can help people who are presently motivated to get treatment.
  • Information and education: Clear, accurate information about treatment options and steps to take.
  • Advocacy: Working to reduce stigma and promote understanding of substance use disorders.
  • Support services: Connecting individuals with the resources they need, including financial assistance, transportation, and emotional support.
  • Community building: Creating a network of support for those in recovery and their loved ones.
We reach people who have been denied access to addiction treatment by working closely with receptive programs, especially those in high risk and lower income communities.

Join Us

If you or someone you know is struggling with a substance use disorder and wants help but doesn’t know where to start, The Addiction Gap is here for you. We are committed to helping you navigate the challenges and find the treatment you need to reclaim your life.

Together, we can bridge the gap to recovery and create a future where everyone has the opportunity to heal and thrive.