One recovering addict believes he knows what needs to be done to stop the growing trend.

John Neely, executive director of the Southeast Texas Council on Alcohol & Drug Abuse understands why some people don't seek treatment.

"When I'm in the disease I can't see the solution and I can't see your logic. I can always drive better when I've had a few that's the delusion I've always told myself."

He urges people to find help.

"Treatment works for everybody who gets into treatment, recognizes they have a problem and works on the solution."

When it comes to crimes involving alcohol Neely says offenders need to be punished.

He says,"Accountability and responsibility are part of the growth process."

Neely has seen what happens when addicts don't find help.

"If left untreated we end up in correction institutions or an early death."