Updated Drug and Alcohol Statistics for Mississippi
In This Article
Mississippi has been grappling with the devastating effects of drug and alcohol addiction for years. The state has seen high rates of overdose deaths, particularly those involving opioids, along with concerning levels of substance use disorders among its residents. This article presents a comprehensive overview of the current state of drug and alcohol use in Mississippi, highlighting the most shocking statistics and the challenges faced in treatment and recovery.
- In 2021, Mississippi had 787 overdose deaths, with an age-adjusted rate of 28.4 deaths per 100,000 people.
- Overdose deaths involving fentanyl rose by 51% from 2020 to 2021, but overall overdose deaths declined by 10% in 2022.
- An average of 1,372 annual deaths in Mississippi are attributable to excessive alcohol use.
Overdose Deaths
In 2021, the state had 787 overdose deaths, with an age-adjusted rate of 28.4 deaths per 100,000 people1.
- Overdose deaths involving fentanyl rose by 51% from 2020 to 2021, but overall overdose deaths declined by 10% in 202223.
- In 2022, 281 of the 358 suspected overdose deaths were opioid-related, a decrease of 25.27% from 20214.
While the recent decline in overdose deaths is encouraging, the state must continue its efforts to address the opioid crisis and prevent further loss of life.
Substance Use Disorders
From 2017 to 2019, the annual average prevalence of substance use disorder among people aged 12 or older was 9.9%5.
- The annual average prevalence of illicit drug use disorder among individuals aged 12 or older was 2.4%5.
- The annual average prevalence of marijuana use disorder among individuals aged 12 or older was 1.3%5.
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Opioid Prescriptions and Treatment
In 2022, over 2,299,615 opioid prescriptions were dispensed4.
- In 2022, 1,735 Mississippians were admitted to community mental health centers, with opioids as the primary diagnosis for 567 (32.7%) of them4.
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Youth Substance Use
Youth substance use is a growing concern in Mississippi. From 2017 to 2019, the annual average prevalence of illicit drug use among youth aged 12–17 was 6.6%5.
- More than 57,000 youth under 21 die from excessive drinking each year in the United States6.
Alcohol Use and Related Issues
An average of 1,372 annual deaths in the state are attributable to excessive alcohol use7.
- Nearly 17% of Mississippi residents admitted to binge drinking8.
The drug and alcohol crisis in Mississippi 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, Mississippi can make strides in addressing this public health emergency and saving lives.
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Related Articles
- Preventing Opioid Misuse in Mississippi. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2022.
- Narcan Overdose Emergency Kits Installed in Gulf Park Student Residence Halls. The University of Southern Mississippi, 2023.
- Mississippi Drug Overdose Deaths Declined 10% in 2022. Mississippi Free Press, 2023.
- Mississippi Prescription Monitoring Program Statistics. Mississippi Board of Pharmacy, 2023.
- Behavioral Health Barometer: Mississippi, Volume 6. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, 2020.
- Excessive Drinking – Youth Health. America’s Health Rankings, 2021.
- Alcohol Abuse Statistics. Drug Abuse Statistics, 2023.
- Mississippi Substance Abuse Statistics. Vertava Health Mississippi, 2022.
