Updated Drug and Alcohol Statistics for New Mexico

New Mexico 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, alcohol use and related issues, youth substance use, and additional challenges in New Mexico, highlighting the urgent need for effective solutions.

• New Mexico has the nation’s highest alcohol-related death rate.¹
• In 2019, 74% of all overdose deaths in New Mexico involved opioids.²
• Drug overdose deaths in New Mexico have increased in recent years, with more than 80,000 people dying of opioid overdoses nationwide in 2022.³

Substance Use and Disorders

Substance use disorders are prevalent in New Mexico, with high rates of drug-induced deaths and opioid overdose deaths. Here are some key statistics:

• Bernalillo County has the highest number of drug-induced deaths, with prescription opioids (49%), heroin (36%), and cocaine (31%) being the most common drugs causing unintentional overdose deaths.¹

These numbers demonstrate the widespread nature of substance use issues in New Mexico and the need for effective prevention and treatment strategies.

Alcohol Use and Related Issues

Alcohol use and related issues are significant concerns in New Mexico, with the state consistently ranking among the highest in the nation for alcohol-related deaths. Consider these statistics:

• New Mexico’s total alcohol-related death rate has consistently ranked 1st, 2nd, or 3rd in the U.S. since 1981.⁴
• Alcohol-related chronic disease deaths by county and race/ethnicity show significant disparities, with American Indian males and females having the largest burden.⁴

Addressing alcohol-related issues through prevention, treatment, and policy changes is crucial for improving public health in New Mexico.

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Youth Substance Use

Substance use among young people in New Mexico is a concern, although specific recent percentages are not provided:

• The percentage of children ages 12-17 who reported using illicit drugs, including marijuana, in the past month is monitored but specific recent percentages are not provided.⁵

Monitoring youth substance use is crucial for developing targeted prevention and intervention strategies.

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Additional Statistics

Here are some additional statistics related to substance use and addiction in New Mexico:

• In 2019, there were 98,549 substance abuse treatment admissions, with alcohol being the primary drug for 31% of admissions.¹
• Heroin accounted for 42% of substance abuse treatment admissions.¹
• Other opiates were the primary drug for a significant number of treatment admissions.¹
• More than 1,100 New Mexicans died due to excessive drinking in 2021.⁶
• The alcohol-induced death rate in the Duluth metro area was nearly double the statewide average.⁶

The statistics presented in this article paint a grim picture of the drug and alcohol addiction landscape in New Mexico. From the nation’s highest alcohol-related death rate to the devastating impact of the opioid crisis and increasing drug overdose deaths, 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, New Mexico can work towards a healthier, more resilient future for all its residents.

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