Millions of people are suffering in our own backyards from substance abuse and addiction. With drug overdose deaths having more than tripled since 1990, it’s clear that addiction is a serious and devastating problem that isn’t going away anytime soon.
While drug abuse and addiction are happening all over the United States, there are some places where more people are affected than others. Here, we’ve listed 5 states with the worst drug problems. Just keep reading to find out what they are.
1. Michigan
The highest-ranked state for drug problems, Michigan is the first on our list. Around 1 in every 10 Michigan residents admitted to using drugs in the past month. In addition to this, 26 percent of teenagers said they were offered or sold drugs while on school property.
More than $75 million is spent on inpatient and outpatient treatment in the state, and it’s clear to see why.
2. Missouri
Missouri comes in at number 2 on the list, with a high opioid overdose death rate at the forefront of the state’s drug problem. In 2018 alone, deaths related to opioids totaled 1,132.
That same year, 63.4 opioid prescriptions were given to every 100 persons, which is significantly higher than the national average.
3. West Virginia
West Virginia is also one of the states with the worst drug problems. Nearly 70 percent of all overdose deaths in 2018 involved opioids and that number continues to rise as synthetic opioids like fentanyl become easier to get.
The abuse of prescription drugs is the largest problem in West Virginia, followed by heroin, methamphetamine, and crack cocaine.
4. Indiana
2017 was the year of the most drug overdose deaths in the state of Indiana, with nearly 30 people overdosing per 100,000 residents. This was a 22 percent increase from the previous year, which goes to show how the state is facing a drug overdose epidemic.
63 percent of drug overdoses in 2017 involved opioids and 37 percent happened when the person used other illicit drugs.
5. Arkansas
The Natural State has seen its fair share of drug problems, with over 7 percent of residents admitting to having used illicit drugs in the last 30 days.
The most popular drugs to be abused in Arkansas include the following:
- methamphetamine
- prescription drugs
- cocaine
- heroin
It’s estimated that well over half of the individuals who are struggling with addiction in Arkansas don’t get the treatment they need.
Getting Help
If you or a loved one are showing signs of addiction, you’re far from alone. While millions of people face addiction, it’s estimated that only around 10 percent receive treatment.
Rehabilitation is available to you and will help get you back on the right course while offering support and encouragement in a safe and healthy environment. Check out this outpatient drug rehab center to learn more about how getting help could transform your life.
Know These States With Worst Drug Problems
Addiction isn’t picky when it comes to impacting areas, but now you’re aware of the states with worst drug problems. Remember, addiction isn’t the fault of the person and there’s always a way to get help; you just have to reach out!
Did you find the information in this post helpful? If so, don’t forget to check out our other articles about all things health.
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