Despite their high prevalence and numerous associated adverse health consequences (Aharonovich et al., 2002; Blanco et al., 2014b; Degenhardt and Hall, 2012; García-Rodrígueza et al., 2014), many individuals with SUD do not receive treatment (Blanco et al., 2013a; Compton et al., 2007; Edlund et al., 2012; Hasin et al., 2007; Kessler et al., 1999; Olfson et al., 1998; Regier et al., 1993). The great extent of unmet need for substance abuse treatment underscores the critical public health importance of understanding factors that promote the flow of individuals with SUDs into treatment. Although there are important differences between perceived and objective need for substance abuse treatment (Mojtabai et al., 2002), quality of life substantially declines following the onset of SUD (Rubio et al., 2014). Because individuals with SUDs who receive treatment increase their likelihood of remission and decrease their likelihood of developing new SUDs, increasing access to SUD treatment tends to improve outcome (Blanco et al., 2014a). Of course, SUD treatment is often court mandated or occurs following the pressure exerted by friends or family members (Cook and Alegria, 2011).
