Substance abuse is a problem across the US, and while rates may vary from region to region, the truth is that no state is immune. In fact, the numbers show that Michigan is above the national average in many areas, proving that drug and alcohol addiction are prevalent throughout the state. The following statistics show the prevalence of drug use throughout Michigan and the positive steps being taken to turn the tide of drug addiction and drug-related deaths.
Michigan Addiction Statistics
In 2013-2014, Michigan had the 12th highest rate of past-month illicit drug use out of all 50 states and the District of Columbia, according to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, undertaken by the Substance Abuse and Mental Services Administration (SAMHSA). The Great Lakes State also rated 18th for non-medical use of pain relievers in 2013 (from 5.33 percent to 6.33 of the adult population, based on region), and had the 13th highest rates of binge drinking compared to other states, according to data from the Michigan Department of Community Health report published in April 2014. Heroin and cocaine use are also seen statewide, even among middle school and high school students, according to The Bureau of Substance Abuse and Addiction Services (BSAAS).1
According to an even more recent survey by WalletHub, Michigan ranks 10th in the nation in terms of overall drug problem, in six key areas:
- Number of opioid pain reliever prescriptions per capita (No. 10)
- Percentage of adults who used illicit drugs in the past month (No. 11)
- Percentage of teenagers who were offered, sold or given an illegal drug on school property in the past year (No. 13)
- Percentage of teenagers who used illicit drugs in the past month (No. 15)
- Number of drug overdose deaths per capita (No. 15)
- Number of substance abuse treatment facilities per 100,000 people 12 years and older using illicit drugs (No. 19)2
Taking Action
A bright spot among all these statistics is that many Michiganders are seeking help. In 2013, nearly $75 million was spent in the state on inpatient and outpatient treatment according to the Michigan Department of Community Health, Behavioral Health and Development Disabilities Administration Report to the Legislature. At the same time, nearly $9 million went to detox expenditures, $6 million was spent on recovery support and another $17 million on prevention, while $660,527 was allotted for early intervention. It’s important that the treatment available in Michigan addresses co-occurring disorders since 20 percent of state residents report that they also suffer from a mental illness.3
Finding Help for Drug and Alcohol Addiction In Michigan
Help is available for those who are ready to address their addiction issues, and integrated treatment allows for the best opportunity for lasting recovery. By seeing how much is spent on treatment each year in Michigan, it’s a great reminder that there is hope for recovery! If you or a loved one struggles with drug abuse, we are here for you. Call our toll-free helpline 24 hours a day at 269-280-4673 to speak to an admissions coordinator about available treatment options.
1 Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. “Behavioral Health Barometer, Michigan 2014.” SAMSA.gov. N.p., 2015. Web. 30 June 2017.
2 Kiernan, John S. “Drug Use by State: 2017’s Problem Areas” WalletHub. 15 May 2017. Web. Accessed 30 June 2017.
3 Michigan Mental Health and Wellness Commission. “State of Michigan Mental Health and Wellness 2013 Report.” N.p., 21 Jan. 2014. Web. 30 June 2017.
