Like many other states, Massachusetts is home to countless individuals struggling with drug use and addiction. Unfortunately, the drug epidemic in Massachusetts does not seem to be slowing down any time soon. In fact, in 2009, there were more drug-related deaths in the state than vehicle and firearm deaths combined.
Fortunately, there are hundreds of addiction treatment centers in Massachusetts. Swift River is one of these centers and is home to evidence-based treatment that has helped countless Massachusetts residents reclaim their lives from addiction. Call 413.570.9698 now to learn more.
Massachusetts Substance Abuse Statistics
- Massachusetts ranked #8 in the rate of drug-related deaths in 2019, reports the CDC. That year, the state had 32.1 drug-related deaths for every 100,000 residents. Heroin is the top illicit drug of use in Boston and the entire state.
- The state of Massachusetts reports that the number of opioid-related deaths in the state has increased 450% over the last 16 years (2005-2021).
- In 2018, more than 90% of opioid-related deaths in Massachusetts involved synthetic opioids such as fentanyl.
- The city of Boston reports that an estimated 11.3% of people living in Boston are suffering from some form of substance abuse.
Massachusetts has implemented several programs to help combat the opioid epidemic and other drug use and addiction. These programs include State Without StigMA, Making The Right Call, and the Massachusetts Prescription Awareness Tool. All of these programs help raise awareness and prevent drug use and overdose.
Drug Use And Addiction Statistics In Massachusetts
Drug and alcohol use is rampant in Massachusetts. In 2014, a study found that more than 13 percent of residents ages 12 and older had used illegal drugs in the previous month. Additionally, between 2008 and 2009, nearly 35 percent of people ages 12 to 25 were dependent on or used drugs or alcohol. These statistics on Massachusetts drug use are alarming and are higher than the national average.
Additional drug use and addiction statistics from Massachusetts include:
- Opioids — Massachusetts is among the top 10 states affected by the opioid epidemic. Hospital visits related to heroin use increased by an estimated 256 percent from 2011 to 2015. Fentanyl is the leading opioid that is to blame for opioid-related deaths in Massachusetts, with an estimated 85 percent of opioid overdoses due to fentanyl use or use.
- Alcohol — Alcohol is the second most used drug behind opioids in Massachusetts. In fact, underage drinking alone cost the state nearly $1.5 billion in 2007, and the numbers have only increased.
- Cocaine — Cocaine use and addiction in Massachusetts are also high on the list. An estimated four percent of all Massachusetts high school students have used cocaine more than once.
- Marijuana — The use of marijuana is incredibly high in Massachusetts. An estimated 38 percent of high school students have used marijuana in the past, and nearly five percent of all rehab admissions in 2015 were due to marijuana use or addiction.
The drug statistics in Massachusetts are indeed sobering. However, it’s essential to know that several resources are available to help individuals overcome substance use disorders and reclaim their lives in sobriety.
Treatment Options For Massachusetts Drug Rehab
A person’s recovery from drug addiction starts with the decision to seek treatment. Residents of Massachusetts have several options when it comes to deciding on a rehab facility for overcoming a substance use disorder. Swift River, located in Cummington, Massachusetts, is dedicated to providing individuals with quality addiction treatment and compassionate care. To learn more about Massachusetts drug statistics or get more information on our inpatient rehab facility, contact one of our treatment specialists today.
