ABOUT US

Who is the USRWC?

The U.S. Recovery Workforce Council has embarked on a journey to eliminate the stigma of substance use and mental health from our workforce in America. Our commitment is to ensure American businesses, consumers, and the Federal government gives equal opportunity to millions of people in recovery from substance use disorders and co-occurring disorders. Members and Certified Facilities through the USRWC Accreditation Program benefit from our vast network, collaborative opportunities, public affairs, and government relations’ support.

Why is there a need for the USRWC?

Active Use Statistics:

19.7 million Americans have a substance use disorder
8.5 million American adults suffer from mental health and substance use disorders (co-occurring disorders)

Mental Health Statistics:

46.6 million Americans endure mental illness in a given year
11.2 million Americans experience a serious mental illness that interferes with daily activities

Cost on the Economy:

Substance use and addiction has cost the United States more than $740 billion annually in lost workplace productivity, healthcare expenses, and criminal misconduct
Serious mental illness costs the United States $193.2 billion in lost earnings per year
Nearly twice as many people who find themselves unemployed endure addiction
2.3 million people are incarcerated; of which more than 65% meet the criteria for addiction
Approximately 75% of individuals in a state prison or local jail who suffer from a mental illness also struggle with substance abuse