Updated Drug and Alcohol Statistics for Michigan

Michigan has been grappling with the devastating effects of drug and alcohol addiction for years. The state has seen a concerning rise in substance abuse, particularly among youth, along with high rates of drug overdose deaths. This article presents a comprehensive overview of the current state of drug and alcohol use in Michigan, highlighting the most shocking statistics and the challenges faced in treatment and recovery.

• In 2018, Michigan recorded 2,809 deaths from drug overdoses, more than deaths from car accidents.
• Deaths from opioid overdoses increased from 118 deaths in 1999 to 2,809 deaths in 2021.
• In 2023, 31.2% of 12th graders reported using illicit substances in the past year.

Substance Use and Disorders

Illicit drug use among teens in Michigan is a significant concern. In 2023, 10.9% of 8th graders, 19.8% of 10th graders, and 31.2% of 12th graders reported using illicit substances in the past year¹.

• Alcohol use among teens is also alarming, with 15.1% of 8th graders and 30.6% of 10th graders reporting drinking alcohol in the past year. However, alcohol use among 12th graders decreased to 45.7% from 51.9% in 2022¹.

These statistics highlight the need for targeted prevention and intervention efforts to address substance use among Michigan’s youth.

Opioid Crisis and Overdose Deaths

The opioid crisis has hit Michigan particularly hard. In 2018, the state recorded 2,809 deaths from drug overdoses, surpassing deaths from car accidents².

• Deaths from opioid overdoses have skyrocketed, increasing from 118 deaths in 1999 to 2,809 deaths in 2021².
• In 2020, 142.8 million prescriptions for opioids were filled in Michigan².

These alarming figures underscore the urgency of addressing the opioid epidemic in Michigan through comprehensive prevention, treatment, and harm reduction strategies.

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Alcohol Use and Related Issues

Alcohol use is widespread among adults in Michigan, with 60% of those aged 18 and older reporting alcohol use in the past month. Among youth aged 12 to 17, 16% consumed alcohol³.

• Excessive drinking is also a concern, with 20% of adults in Michigan reporting excessive drinking, slightly higher than the U.S. average of 19%⁴.

Addressing excessive alcohol use and its related harms requires a multi-faceted approach, including education, prevention, and accessible treatment options.

The drug and alcohol crisis in Michigan has far-reaching consequences, affecting individuals, families, and communities across the state. By understanding the scope of the problem and the specific challenges faced, policymakers, healthcare providers, and community organizations can work together to develop targeted interventions and support systems. With a comprehensive approach that includes prevention, treatment, and recovery services, Michigan can make strides in addressing this public health emergency and saving lives.

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