Hard-Hitting Prescription Drug Abuse Statistics

November 17, 2024

Explore shocking prescription drug abuse statistics and their impact on health and society. Stay informed!

The Scope of Prescription Drug Abuse

Statistics Overview

Prescription drug abuse is a significant public health concern in the United States. The statistics reveal alarming trends regarding the misuse of legal medications.

According to the National Center for Drug Abuse Statistics, 45.8% of American adults have used a prescription drug—legally or illegally—within the past 30 days. This high rate of consumption contributes to rising addiction and overdose rates.

In 2019, approximately 5.7 million people misused prescription medications in the U.S.. The misuse of these medications often leads to serious health risks, including fatal overdoses. In 2015 alone, 52,404 individuals died from drug overdoses, with over 20,000 of those deaths linked to prescription pain relievers.

The following table summarizes key statistics related to prescription drug abuse:

Statistic Value
Prescription pain reliever deaths (2015) 20,000+
Heroin-related overdose deaths (2015) 12,990
Adults using prescription drugs (past 30 days) 45.8%
Estimated misusers of prescription drugs (2019) 5.7 million

The rate of overdose deaths from prescription drugs has shown a dramatic increase, rising nearly fourfold between 1999 and 2008. Meanwhile, the number of prescriptions filled for pain relievers quadrupled from 1999 to 2010, reaching 259 million prescriptions in 2012. This quantity is astonishing enough to provide a bottle of pain pills to every adult in the country [2].

The scope of prescription drug abuse is broad, highlighting a pressing need for effective measures to address the issue. For more information on the consequences and treatment of substance abuse, refer to articles on the stages of alcoholism and the benefits of rehabs in pa.

Impact of Prescription Drug Abuse

Rising Trends

The statistics on prescription drug abuse reveal alarming trends in recent years. In 2015, approximately 52,404 individuals in the U.S. died from fatal drug overdoses, with prescription pain relievers and heroin as key contributors to these deaths (University of Southern California). The misuse of prescription painkillers has dramatically increased, surpassing marijuana as the most commonly abused drug among teenagers since the 1990s. This shift in recreational drug use suggests a transition in the substances favored by younger populations, leading to concerning implications for public health.

Year Number of Overdose Deaths
2015 52,404
2023 Data pending

The data indicates a concerning trajectory, particularly as the accessible supply of dangerous substances evolves. For instance, law enforcement agencies seized over 115 million pills containing illicit fentanyl in the United States in 2023, underscoring the growing presence of this lethal drug in communities (National Institute on Drug Abuse). The rise of synthetic opioids has compounded the existing crisis and poses significant health risks.

Vulnerable Populations

Certain demographics are particularly susceptible to the challenges posed by prescription drug abuse. A study conducted in 2016 found that U.S. veterans are at an elevated risk for drug addiction and overdose due to various factors, including exposure to trauma, mental health challenges, and difficulty reintegrating into civilian life (University of Southern California). Such complexities highlight the need for targeted interventions to support vulnerable populations in combatting substance abuse.

The rise in prescription opioid misuse has played a crucial role in the early stages of the opioid overdose epidemic. It was during this period that many individuals transitioned to more dangerous substances, including illicit fentanyl and heroin. Understanding these demographic vulnerabilities is essential for developing effective strategies to address prescription drug abuse and its far-reaching consequences.

For further insights on addiction patterns and recovery options, explore our articles on the stages of alcoholism and the steps of recovery. Recognizing the impact of prescription drug abuse is crucial for fostering awareness and driving change in communities.

Types of Prescription Drugs Abused

Prescription drug abuse encompasses a range of medications, some of which are widely misused. Understanding the various types of prescription drugs commonly abused is essential for recognizing the risks involved. The following sections provide an overview of the most frequently abused prescription drugs.

Opioids

Opioids, such as OxyContin, Percocet, and Vicodin, are among the most commonly abused prescription medications. Misuse of these opioids significantly increases the risk of overdose and can lead to severe breathing problems [3]. The misuse of prescription opioids has been a major contributor to the early opioid overdose epidemic. This trend emerged even before non-prescription substances such as heroin or illicit fentanyl became primary causes of overdose.

Opioids Commonly Abused Brands Overdose Risks
Oxycodone OxyContin, Percocet Severe respiratory depression
Hydrocodone Vicodin High potential for overdose

Benzodiazepines

Benzodiazepines, including Alprazolam (Xanax), clonazepam (Klonopin), and diazepam (Valium), can lead to physical dependence and addiction, even when used as prescribed. Abruptly stopping these medications can result in dangerous withdrawal symptoms. Between 2003 and 2015, prescribing rates for benzodiazepines increased across various age groups, racial and ethnic backgrounds, and genders in the United States [4].

Benzodiazepines Commonly Abused Brands Dependence Risks
Alprazolam Xanax High risk of addiction
Diazepam Valium Withdrawal symptoms can be dangerous

Stimulants

Stimulants like amphetamines (e.g., Adderall and Ritalin) are often prescribed to treat ADHD but are sometimes abused to achieve heightened energy or euphoria. Taking high doses of these stimulants can lead to severe side effects, including irregular heartbeat and even cardiac arrest. From 2014 to 2019, the rate of prescribing prescription stimulants increased significantly, particularly among adults aged 20 and older, with a notable rise in prescriptions for females [4].

Stimulants Commonly Abused Brands Side Effects
Amphetamines Adderall, Ritalin Cardiac arrest, high blood pressure

Over-the-Counter Medications

Dextromethorphan (DXM), found in many over-the-counter cold and cough medicines, is frequently abused, particularly among teenagers. When taken in large doses, DXM can lead to serious consequences, such as hallucinations, vomiting, rapid heart rate, and even potential brain damage [3].

OTC Medications Commonly Abused Brands Abuse Risks
Cough Syrups Robitussin, NyQuil Hallucinations, brain damage

Various factors contribute to the rising statistics related to prescription drug abuse. Recognizing the types of drugs frequently misused is a key step in understanding the broader context of this public health issue. For more information on the impacts and statistics surrounding prescription drug abuse, explore our detailed coverage on prescription drug abuse statistics.

Factors Contributing to Prescription Drug Abuse

Understanding the factors that contribute to prescription drug misuse is essential to addressing the issue effectively. Two significant factors include availability and accessibility, along with demographic influences.

Availability and Accessibility

The availability and accessibility of prescription medications play a pivotal role in the prevalence of drug abuse. Approximately 45.8% of American adults used a prescription drug – legally or illegally – within the last 30 days [5]. This high rate of usage is supported by the vast accessibility of prescription medications in society.

Both prescription and over-the-counter drugs can be addictive and harmful when misused [3]. The ease of obtaining these drugs increases the chances that individuals might misuse them, leading to addiction and overdose risks.

Year Percentage of Adults Using Prescription Drugs
2015-2016 50.0% (Non-Hispanic White)
2015-2016 44.7% (Non-Hispanic Black)
2015-2016 37.1% (Hispanic)
2015-2016 33.4% (Non-Hispanic Asian)

Differences in prescription drug use highlight the role that availability plays across different demographics, which can further dictate patterns of misuse.

Demographic Influences

Demographic factors also significantly impact prescription drug misuse statistics. Certain populations exhibit higher usage and abuse rates, particularly among different racial and ethnic groups. Data from 2015-2016 revealed that prescription drug use was notably higher among non-Hispanic whites compared to non-Hispanic blacks, Hispanics, and non-Hispanic Asians [6].

Additionally, it was observed that significant declines in past-year opioid and poly-drug misuse occurred among those under 35 years, White, and multiracial individuals in the United States between 2015 and 2019 [4].

Recognizing these demographic influences helps to pinpoint which groups may be more vulnerable to prescription drug misuse and how targeted efforts may be necessary for prevention and treatment. Each demographic group may face unique challenges and environmental factors that affect their susceptibility to drug misuse.

Consequences of Prescription Drug Abuse

Prescription drug abuse has profound repercussions that affect both individual health and societal well-being. Understanding these consequences is crucial for addressing the ongoing epidemic related to prescription drug abuse statistics.

Health Risks

The health risks associated with the misuse of prescription medications can be severe and life-threatening. Commonly abused prescription drugs, such as opioids and benzodiazepines, can lead to various health complications.

Drug Class Health Risks
Opioids Overdose, respiratory depression, addiction
Benzodiazepines Physical dependence, withdrawal symptoms, overdose
Stimulants Increased heart rate, anxiety, potential for heart attack
Over-the-Counter Medications Liver damage (e.g., from acetaminophen); dependence

Prescription opioids, like OxyContin and Vicodin, are particularly notorious for their high potential for addiction. Misuse significantly raises the risk of overdose, which can result in fatal respiratory problems [3]. Moreover, benzodiazepines, including Xanax and Valium, may lead to physical dependence even when used as directed. Abruptly discontinuing these medications can cause dangerous withdrawal symptoms.

Social Impacts

The social effects of prescription drug abuse are also alarming, influencing various aspects of life. This includes damage to relationships, decreased productivity, and increased healthcare costs.

Social Consequence Description
Relationship Strain Drug misuse can lead to conflicts and breakdowns in interpersonal relationships.
Job Performance Decreased focus and failing health can lead to absenteeism or job loss.
Economic Burden Increased healthcare costs due to treatments and interventions for addiction.
Legal Issues Engaging in illegal activities for drug access can lead to arrests and convictions.

Prescription painkillers have surpassed marijuana as the most commonly abused recreational drugs among teenagers since the 1990s. This shift indicates broader societal implications, particularly among youth, with approximately 4% of individuals aged 12-17 reporting misuse of prescription psychotherapeutic drugs in the past month.

Addressing both the health and social impacts of prescription drug abuse is vital for communities and healthcare providers aiming to combat this growing public health issue.

Combating Prescription Drug Abuse

Addressing the issue of prescription drug misuse requires a comprehensive approach that includes both preventive measures and treatment options. The goal is to reduce the incidence of addiction while aiding those who are already struggling.

Prevention Strategies

Effective prevention strategies are essential to tackle the roots of prescription drug misuse. Education plays a critical role in raising awareness about the dangers of these substances. Programs targeting schools, communities, and healthcare providers can inform individuals about potential addiction risks and the proper use of medications.

The National Center for Drug Abuse Statistics emphasizes that the accessibility of these medications contributes significantly to misuse rates. Thus, strategies should include monitoring prescriptions and encouraging responsible prescribing practices among healthcare providers.

A recent report from the CDC indicates that nearly 41% of Americans who misuse prescription drugs obtained them from family and friends for free. This highlights the need for guidance on safe medication storage and disposal methods, making it less likely that others can access unused prescriptions.

Prevention Strategy Description
Education Programs Teaching about drug abuse risks and proper usage
Prescription Monitoring Overseeing prescription practices to prevent misuse
Safe Storage Practices Storing medications securely to reduce accessibility
Disposal Guidelines Promoting responsible disposal of unused drugs

Treatment Options

For those already affected by prescription drug abuse, a range of treatment options is available. These can include both behavioral therapies and medication-assisted treatment (MAT).

  1. Behavioral Therapies: Therapies such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) help individuals understand the underlying motivations for their drug use and develop healthier coping strategies. Programs may also include group counseling, which fosters a supportive environment.

  2. Medication-Assisted Treatment: MAT can be particularly beneficial for individuals dealing with opioid addiction. This approach combines the use of medication, such as buprenorphine or methadone, with counseling and behavioral therapies. Studies have shown that MAT can improve treatment retention and reduce illicit opioid use.

  3. Support Groups: These provide a platform for individuals to share their experiences and challenges in recovery. Programs such as Narcotics Anonymous facilitate peer support, which is crucial for long-term recovery.

  4. Inpatient Rehabilitation: For severe cases, inpatient rehab centers offer intensive support and a structured environment to aid in recovery. Treatment plans are often tailored to meet individual needs, focusing on various aspects of addiction recovery.

For more details on the rehabilitation process and its long-term benefits, check out the article on the benefits of rehabs in pa.

A combination of prevention strategies and effective treatment options is vital to combat the ongoing issue of prescription drug abuse and ensure that individuals receive the support they need.

References

Learn More

Find More Resources

How to Choose the Right Addiction Treatment Center

January 17, 2025
Guiding Steps to Selecting an Ideal Rehab Facility

The Role of Cultural Competency in Addiction Treatment

January 17, 2025
Embracing Diversity: Enhancing Addiction Treatment Through Cultural Competency

How to Stay Sober While Traveling

January 17, 2025
Sober Adventures: Discovering the Joy of Substance-Free Travel

How to Identify Personal Triggers and Avoid Relapse

January 16, 2025
Mastering Personal Triggers to Maintain Sobriety

The Role of Nutrition Counseling in Addiction Treatment

January 16, 2025
Exploring the Impact of Nutrition Counseling on Addiction Recovery

The Role of Life Skills Training in Addiction Recovery

January 16, 2025
Empowering Recovery Through Essential Life Skills

The Role of Comprehensive Health Assessments in Treatment Planning

January 15, 2025
Unlocking the Potential of Comprehensive Health Assessments for Tailored Treatment Plans

The Connection Between Addiction and Sleep Disorders

January 15, 2025
Exploring the Sleep-Addiction Cycle: Challenges and Solutions

The Role of Accountability Partners in Recovery

January 15, 2025
Harnessing Accountability for Successful Addiction Recovery

The Importance of A Routine For Recovery – Part 3

January 14, 2025
Crafting Stability and Wellness Through Routine

Selecting the Best Opiate Addiction Treatment Program for Your Needs

January 14, 2025
Finding the Right Path to Overcome Opiate Addiction

How to Stop an Addiction

January 14, 2025
Decoding the Path to Recovery: Tools and Insights

Failure to Treat Addiction Is Leading to Unnecessary Deaths

January 13, 2025
Addressing Barriers to Combat the Addiction Crisis

How Many Days to Break an Addiction

January 13, 2025
Exploring the Time Frame for Overcoming Addiction

12 Tips for Educating Kids About Drugs

January 13, 2025
Essential Guidelines for Teaching Kids about Drugs

You Need Drug Detox to Get Free From Addiction

January 10, 2025
Discovering the Path to Sobriety with Structured Detox

10 Ways on How to Avoid Drug Addiction

January 10, 2025
Practical Strategies to Prevent Drug Addiction

4 Xanax Side Effects

January 10, 2025
Understanding Xanax: Potential Side Effects and Risks

Free Narcan Training & Kit

January 9, 2025
Empowering Communities with Lifesaving Narcan Training and Resources

Recovery: A Process Not An Event

January 9, 2025
Navigating the Continuous Journey of Addiction Recovery

State-Funded Drug Rehab in New York

January 8, 2025
Exploring Low-Cost Rehabilitation Options in New York

How Long Does It Take to Break a Caffeine Addiction

January 8, 2025
Understanding the Journey of Caffeine Withdrawal

Evidence-Based Treatment Examples

January 8, 2025
Exploring Effective Therapies for Mental Health: A Comprehensive Guide

Student Opioid Addiction Rehab

January 7, 2025
Navigating Opioid Challenges and Solutions for Students

Be Your Own Valentine

January 7, 2025
Celebrating Self-Love on Valentine's Day

Mixing Designer Drugs Can Have Lethal Consequences

January 7, 2025
The Fatal Risks of Polydrug Use with Synthetic Substances

Benefits of Rehab Centers in PA

January 6, 2025
Exploring the Comprehensive Care in Pennsylvania's Rehabilitation Centers

What Medications and Devices Help Treat Drug Addiction?

January 6, 2025
Medications and Devices Revolutionizing Drug Addiction Recovery

How to Stop Porn Addiction

January 6, 2025
Breaking Free from Porn: A Comprehensive Guide to Recovery

How Long Does It Take to Break a Porn Addiction

January 3, 2025
Understanding the Path to Freedom from Pornography Addiction

How to Stop a Soda Addiction

January 3, 2025
Breaking Free from Soda: A Step-by-Step Guide

Meth Recovery Stages Seem Impossible At First

January 3, 2025
Understanding the Complex Journey of Meth Recovery

What Is Evidence Based Treatment

January 2, 2025
Unveiling the Core of Evidence-Based Treatment

Roger Ebert, a Shining Light for Addicts Everywhere, Dies at Age 70

January 2, 2025
Honoring the Life and Legacy of Roger Ebert

Is Your Co-Worker Addicted to Drugs or Alcohol?

January 2, 2025
Recognize and Address Substance Abuse in Colleagues for a Safer Workplace

Recovery and Spending Time in Nature

January 2, 2025
The Role of Nature in Facilitating Recovery Processes

More Ways to Develop Emotional Intelligence in Recovery

January 2, 2025
Enhancing Your Emotional Intelligence on the Path to Sobriety

Drugs Are All Around

January 2, 2025
Exploring the Ubiquity and Impact of Drugs in Society

Reasons to Quit Meth

December 31, 2024
Understanding the Impacts and Benefits of Quitting Meth

I Almost Relapsed on My Birthday But..

December 31, 2024
Navigating the Emotional Challenges of Milestones in Recovery

How to Become an Addiction Counselor

December 31, 2024
Exploring the Path to a Fulfilling Career in Addiction Counseling

People Say This Cures Heroin Addiction

December 30, 2024
Exploring Innovative and Traditional Paths to Overcoming Heroin Addiction

Smoking Alcohol Is a New Trend with College Students

December 30, 2024
A Closer Look at the Risks and Influences of Smoking Alcohol

The Answer to Is Addiction a Disease?

December 30, 2024
Exploring the Roots and Realities of Addiction

4 Ideas to Help You Celebrate a Sober Saint Patrick’s Day

December 27, 2024
Innovative Sober Celebrations for St. Patrick's Day

30 Day Rehab Centers Near Me

December 27, 2024
Exploring Local 30-Day Rehab Options

Movement and Recovery

December 27, 2024
Unveiling the Power of Movement in Recovery Journeys

Why Does Everyone Tell Me I Need Drug Rehab?

December 27, 2024
Understanding the Call for Drug Rehabilitation

Can Addiction Be Cured?

December 27, 2024
Exploring the Challenges and Realities of Addiction Treatment

Inpatient Rehab Guidelines

December 27, 2024
Comprehensive Insights into Inpatient Rehab Protocols

Types of Psychotherapy

December 27, 2024
Exploring Different Psychotherapy Techniques and Their Applications

Someone Called Me a Functioning Alcoholic

December 27, 2024
Exploring the Realities Behind a Common Label

Explanation of Hydrocodone vs Oxycodone

December 27, 2024
Analyzing the Distinctions Between Hydrocodone and Oxycodone

How to Stop Alcohol Addiction

December 27, 2024
Breaking Free from Alcohol Dependence: A Comprehensive Guide

Recovery Gifts That Support Sobriety

December 27, 2024
Thoughtful Gifts for Celebrating Sobriety Milestones

The 10 Best Sitcoms About Drugs From When You Were Growing Up

December 27, 2024
Remembering Classic Sitcoms That Tackled Drug Themes

How to Keep a Grip on Early Recovery – 3 Guidelines to Guarantee Success

December 27, 2024
Mastering Early Recovery with Key Principles

I Am Not Resistant

December 27, 2024
Embracing Resistance: A Journey to Personal Growth

Withdrawal Signs of Caffeine Addiction

December 27, 2024
Understanding the Unseen Challenges of Quitting Caffeine

How to Stop Dopamine Addiction

December 20, 2024
Breaking the Cycle: Understanding and Managing Dopamine Dependency

Who Qualifies for Free Rehab Centers?

December 20, 2024
Eligibility and Access: Navigating Free Rehab Program Criteria

Cognitive Therapy Techniques Explained Simply

December 20, 2024
A Guide to Understanding Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Techniques

Weed Addiction Treatment

December 20, 2024
Navigating the Road to Recovery from Cannabis Addiction

4 Klonopin Side Effects

December 20, 2024
Understanding the Side Effects of Klonopin

Addiction Recovery Stories

December 20, 2024
The Transformative Power of Personal Recovery Journeys

Addiction Help Offered at Rehabilitation Centers in PA

December 20, 2024
Exploring Comprehensive Addiction Treatment in Pennsylvania

The Difference Between Drug Detox and Drug Addiction Rehab

December 20, 2024
Understanding the Journey from Detox to Rehab in Addiction Recovery

My Stepdad Is On Meth

December 20, 2024
Navigating the Challenges of a Loved One's Meth Addiction

Drinking and Pregnancy

December 20, 2024
The Critical Risks and Choices Surrounding Alcohol Consumption during Pregnancy

The Impact of March Madness on Addiction

December 20, 2024
Exploring the Addiction Risks During NCAA Tournament Fever

An Inpatient Drug Rehabilitation Center Isn’t Always the Answer

December 20, 2024
Exploring Alternatives to Inpatient Drug Rehab for Effective Recovery

Cory Monteith – Another Amazing Person Lost After Battling the Disease of Addiction

December 20, 2024
Cory Monteith's Journey: Insights into Addiction's Challenges and Societal Impact

Why Is A Recovery Routine Important – Part 2

December 20, 2024
Key Insights into the Importance of Recovery Routines

How Many Rehab Centers Are in the Us

December 20, 2024
The Expanding Network of Rehab Centers in America

Detox and Rehab Are the Best Way to Deal with Heroin Withdrawal

December 20, 2024
Navigating the Complexities of Overcoming Heroin Dependence

4 Important Things About Relapse

December 25, 2024
Understanding Relapse: Key Insights for Recovery

How Drug Rehabilitation Centers Assist Recovery

December 20, 2024
The Comprehensive Support System in Drug Rehabilitation

Exploring the Scope of Drug Abuse, Addiction and Treatment

December 20, 2024
Unraveling Drug Abuse and Addiction: Causes, Impacts, and Solutions

Addiction: A Disease of Perception

December 20, 2024
Understanding the Intricacies of Addiction as a Perceived Disease

Cognitive Consequences of Methamphetamine Addiction

December 20, 2024
Unveiling the Cognitive Sapce of Methamphetamine's Shadow

Does Relapse to Drug Use Mean Treatment Has Failed?

December 20, 2024
Relapse in Addiction Recovery: Understanding Its Role and Impact

5 Ways to Protect Your Child From Drugs

December 20, 2024
Empowering Parents: Building a Drug-Free Future for Children

How Do Family Triggers Relate To An Addiction?

December 20, 2024
Understanding Family's Role in Addiction Triggers

Drug Addiction and Pregnancy

December 20, 2024
Navigating the Challenges of Substance Use During Pregnancy

Do I Need Rehab?

December 20, 2024
Recognizing When Rehabilitation is Needed for Substance Use

Find Addiction Recovery at a Drug Rehab in PA

December 20, 2024
Exploring Rehabilitation Choices in Pennsylvania

Evidence Based Alcohol Treatment

December 20, 2024
Comprehensive Approaches to Treating Alcohol Use Disorder

Josh Brent Retires From NFL As He Prepares to Defend Himself on a DUI Related Manslaughter Charge

December 20, 2024
Josh Brent Steps Away from Football Amid Legal Challenges

What Is Dual Diagnosis Treatment?

December 20, 2024
Exploring Dual Diagnosis and Its Treatment Approaches

Defeating Four Main Triggers for Relapse in Recovery

December 8, 2024
Discover the four main triggers for relapse in recovery and how to stay strong against them.

Are Caffeine and Nicotine Drugs Excused in Recovery?

December 8, 2024
Explore why caffeine and nicotine are drugs excused in recovery and their impact on addiction recovery.

Revitalize Your Journey: Power of Yoga in Recovery

December 8, 2024
Discover the ways yoga helps with recovery, enhancing mental well-being and physical health on your journey.

The Transformative Force: Understanding Gratitude in Recovery

December 8, 2024
Explore understanding the feeling of gratitude in recovery and its transformative impact on mental health.

3 Strategies for Building Emotional Intelligence in Recovery

December 8, 2024
Discover 3 ways to develop emotional intelligence in recovery and enhance your journey to lasting change.

Empower Your Recovery with These Five Essential Herbs

December 8, 2024
Discover five herbs to aid in the recovery process and support your journey to wellness and resilience.

Navigating Recovery: The Truth Behind Faking It Until You Make It

December 8, 2024
Discover why in recovery sometimes you fake it until you make it and how to navigate your journey effectively.

Essential Strategies for Supporting Recovery

December 8, 2024
Discover essential ways to be supportive of recovery, from community support to effective communication strategies.

Prescription Painkillers Start Heroin Addicts on the Path

December 8, 2024
Discover why every heroin addict in recovery started by using prescription painkillers in this insightful article.

Strategic Steps: Non-Residential Recovery Approaches Explored

December 8, 2024
Discover why residential treatment centers are not always possible for recovery and explore effective alternatives.

Get Started Today

Get in touch with an admission therapist today to embark on your path to recovery immediately.

Get Started

Contact Us Today

info@robinrecovery.com
(888) 586-7168
3616 E Main St, Whitehall, OH 43213
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.