Utah suffers from drug abuse problems just like any other state in the country, though prescription opioids and alcohol are the most problematic substances in the Beehive State. Painkillers are responsible for the majority of drug overdose deaths in Utah, but rehab treatment admissions are highest for alcohol and stimulants like methamphetamine. Fortunately, residents who live in Salt Lake City, Provo, and any other part of Utah can safely recover from dependence and addiction at drug rehab, and reduce their risk for an overdose death.
Here’s a closer look at substance abuse in Utah, and how you can find safe, accredited drug and alcohol rehab treatment for you or a loved one.
Drug Abuse Statistics for Utah
- Utah was ranked 7th highest in the nation for drug overdose deaths from 2013 to 2015.
- In 2016, there were 466 opioid overdose deaths.
- There are 16.4 opioid overdose deaths for every 100,000 people, which is higher than the national rate of 13.3 deaths for every 100,000 people.
- In 2015, there were 73.1 opioid prescriptions written for every 100 state residents, which is higher than the national rate of 70 prescriptions for the same number of people.
- Prescription opioids cause more overdose deaths than any other substance — including illicit drugs.
- Oxycodone accounted for 55% of all prescription opioid deaths that occurred in 2015.
- The rate of babies born with neonatal abstinence syndrome increased more than 5-fold from 2000 to 2011.
- Nearly 85% of people in the state who are dependent on illicit drugs do not receive drug detox or rehab treatment.
- Salt Lake City has the highest rate of marijuana use in the state — roughly 12.3% of the city population uses this drug.
Alcohol Abuse Statistics for Utah
- Over 91% of people in Utah who suffer from alcohol dependence do not receive alcohol detox or rehab treatment.
- Alcohol is the most commonly abused substance among Utah high school students and is used by 10.6% of this population.
- Utah is ranked 7th in the nation for the highest number of deaths by alcohol poisoning.
- An estimated 13.4% of state residents report engaging regularly in excessive alcohol use and binge drinking.
- Excessive alcohol use among Utah adults aged 20 and older leads to 38.6 deaths per 100,000, and is the leading cause of death for this particular age group.
Resources for Drug Rehab in Utah
Sometimes it can be difficult to figure out where to start when you need drug rehab treatment for you or your loved one. However, understand that you’re not alone in your search for quality treatment and that countless others have walked in your same shoes. Look for treatment centers that offer drug and alcohol detox, behavioral therapy, and recreational therapy — all of which can safely and effectively treat every angle of your addiction along with the root causes.
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