Updated Drug and Alcohol Statistics for Georgia

Georgia has been grappling with a significant drug and alcohol addiction crisis, which has had far-reaching consequences for individuals, families, and communities across the state. This article presents an overview of the latest statistics on substance use disorders, opioid-related deaths, alcohol use and related issues, youth substance use, and treatment and recovery challenges in Georgia, highlighting the urgent need for effective solutions.

• In 2020, 2,202 Georgians died from alcohol, the highest number the state has seen this century.¹
• 67% of drug overdose deaths in Georgia were related to opioids in 2020, totaling 1,309 deaths.²
• There were 71 opioid prescriptions written for every 100 people in Georgia, compared to the national average of 59 per 100.³

Substance Use and Disorders

Substance use and disorders, particularly those related to opioids, are prevalent in Georgia. Here are some key statistics:

• In 2017, over 1,014 opioid-related deaths occurred in Georgia.³
• From 2012 to 2017, deaths attributed to heroin increased from 40 to 263.³
• During the same period, deaths involving synthetic opioids (mainly fentanyl) went from 61 to 419.³
• Prescription opioids were responsible for the largest number of opioid-related overdose deaths, totaling 568.³

These numbers demonstrate the severity of the opioid crisis in Georgia and the need for effective prevention and treatment strategies.

Alcohol Use and Related Issues

Alcohol use and related issues are significant concerns in Georgia, contributing to numerous deaths and years of potential life lost. Consider these statistics:

• Excessive drinking results in 2,555 deaths and 79,183 years of potential life lost each year in Georgia.⁴
• In 2011, 16.6% of adults reported binge drinking.⁴
• In 2010, the alcohol consumption per person aged 14 and older was 2.3 gallons.⁴

Addressing alcohol-related issues through prevention and treatment is crucial for improving public health in Georgia.

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Youth Substance Use

Substance use among young people in Georgia is a growing concern, with a significant proportion of youth using alcohol, marijuana, and other substances. Here are some relevant statistics:

• 7.7% of Georgia’s youth admitted to consuming alcohol within the last month.⁵
• 4.6% of youth in Georgia have used marijuana at least once in their lifetime.⁵
• 5.8% of Georgia youth (ages 12 or older) reported having a substance use problem within the past year.⁵

Early intervention and prevention efforts are essential for helping young people avoid developing substance use disorders.

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Treatment and Recovery

Access to quality treatment and recovery services is crucial for addressing substance use disorders in Georgia. Here is a relevant statistic:

• In 2019, 17,307 people in Georgia were enrolled in substance use treatment.⁶

Expanding access to effective treatment and support for long-term recovery is essential for helping individuals and communities affected by addiction.

The statistics presented in this article paint a grim picture of the drug and alcohol addiction landscape in Georgia. From the devastating impact of the opioid crisis and the high rates of alcohol-related deaths to the concerning levels of youth substance use, it is clear that the state faces significant challenges in addressing this crisis. However, by prioritizing prevention, expanding access to quality treatment, and supporting long-term recovery, Georgia can work towards a healthier, more resilient future for all its residents.

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