Updated Drug and Alcohol Statistics for South Dakota

South Dakota is confronting a growing drug and alcohol abuse problem, with the state experiencing increases in alcohol-related deaths and hospitalizations, as well as challenges related to the opioid epidemic and youth substance use. This article provides an overview of the current state of drug and alcohol use in South Dakota, highlighting concerning statistics on alcohol-related issues, the opioid crisis, and youth substance use rates.

• Alcohol-related deaths increased by 120%, from 150 deaths in 2013 to 330 deaths in 2022.¹
• Alcohol-related hospitalizations increased by 38%, from 1,897 hospitalizations in 2017 to 2,622 in 2021.²
• 24.4% of South Dakotan adults drink excessively, the third highest rate nationwide.³

Substance Use and Disorders

South Dakota faces challenges related to substance use and disorders, with data from various surveys and reports highlighting these issues.

• South Dakota high school youth alcohol and drug use data from the Youth Risk Behavior Survey (2009-2019).¹
• Data from the 2021 BRFSS report indicates alcohol use trends in South Dakota.¹
• Alcohol-related deaths increased by 120%, from 150 deaths in 2013 to 330 deaths in 2022.¹

The data from these reports underscores the need for effective prevention, treatment, and recovery services in the state.

Alcohol Use and Related Issues

Alcohol use is a significant concern in South Dakota, with increases in alcohol-related hospitalizations and deaths, as well as disparities among certain populations.

• Alcohol-related hospitalizations increased by 38%, from 1,897 hospitalizations in 2017 to 2,622 in 2021.²
• Alcoholic liver disease accounted for 63% of all alcohol-related deaths.²
• American Indian alcohol-related death rates were seven times higher than White death rates.²

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Opioid Crisis and Overdose Deaths

The opioid crisis has impacted South Dakota, with opioid-related deaths increasing in recent years.

• Opioid-related deaths have been increasing in South Dakota since 2012.⁴

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Youth Substance Use

Youth substance use is a concern in South Dakota, with data on illicit drug use among residents.

• 2.39% of South Dakota residents reported using an illicit drug other than marijuana in the past month.⁵

Additional Statistics

Other substance use trends and challenges in South Dakota include:

• 24.4% of South Dakotan adults drink excessively, the third highest rate nationwide.³
• There were 82 unintentional and undetermined overdose deaths in 2021.⁶

The statistics presented in this article highlight the growing drug and alcohol abuse problem in South Dakota. From the alarming increases in alcohol-related deaths and hospitalizations to the challenges posed by the opioid crisis and youth substance use, it is evident that urgent action is needed to address these issues. By investing in prevention, treatment, and recovery services, and promoting collaboration among community stakeholders, South Dakota can work towards supporting those struggling with addiction and creating a healthier future for all its residents.

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