In recent years, the battle against drug addiction has become an urgent issue across the United States, with certain states experiencing particularly high levels of substance use. The rankings reveal a troubling trend, underscoring the widespread impact of addiction on individuals and communities alike.
Addressing this crisis requires comprehensive, evidence-based treatment programs like those offered by Crestview Recovery in Portland, Oregon. With a deep commitment to helping individuals reclaim their lives, Crestview Recovery provides tailored addiction treatment programs designed to support long-term recovery and well-being.
Highest Drug Use by State
Understanding the geographic distribution of drug use can help in tailoring effective treatment and prevention strategies. According to the most recent data from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), the states with the highest rates of drug use include:
- New Mexico
- West Virginia
- Nevada
- Colorado
- Missouri
The District of Columbia (Washington D.C) technically ranks fourth for the highest drug use but isn’t a state. The criteria for this ranking include drug use for all ages, arrests and laws regarding drug abuse, and addiction treatment statistics.
The New Mexico government reports that alcohol is the most abused substance in their state. In 2021, 2,271 people died due to alcohol-related causes. According to the National Center for
Drug Abuse Statistics, California has the most alcohol-related deaths, followed by Texas and Florida.
Since alcohol is a legal substance, alcohol misuse can sometimes go unnoticed and undiagnosed. If you or someone you know struggles with alcohol consumption, it’s crucial to get professional alcohol addiction treatment.
Cocaine is the second highest most used drug in America. Colorado is regarded as the cocaine capital of the United States, but Arizona has the highest amount of cocaine abuse according to the American Addiction Centers statistics. Crestview Recovery offers cocaine addiction treatment to those in Portland, Oregon and welcomes individuals from anywhere else in the United States.
Methamphetamine was the leading cause of drug-related deaths in Oregon, according to the Oregon government in 2019. American Addiction Centers share that Arizona is among the states that struggle the most with meth abuse. Oregon’s High Density Drug Trafficking Area program reports that meth was responsible for or played a part in 68% of the drug-related deaths in Oregon as of September 2023. We take meth use and addiction very seriously at Crestview and offer residential meth addiction treatment in Portland.
The opioid epidemic is rampant all across America. Opioids, including heroin, fentanyl, and oxycodone, are a leading cause of death in the U.S. In West Virginia, opioid abuse is the worst. But in Oregon, the state government filed lawsuits against drug manufacturers for pushing opioids as a treatment for chronic pain, rather than their intended use of post-surgical pain management. Payments began in 2022 and are designated for services for those addicted to opioids or programs to prevent addiction. Opioid abuse treatment addresses the psychological and physical effects of heroin, fentanyl, and prescription medications.
Where Does Oregon Rank in Drug Use?
Oregon ranks 18th in drug use overall. The state is in the top five states with the highest percentage of illicit drug use, according to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health. Due to comprehensive addiction treatment in Oregon, the state can rank below the top ten when you compare drug use to law enforcement and treatment measures in each state. States with fewer treatment options and law enforcement initiatives to rectify drug use rank higher for overall drug use.
Most Commonly Used Substances in Oregon
In Oregon, the most commonly used substances include:
Marijuana is legal for recreational use in Oregon, making it widely accessible across the state. This has led to increased usage, particularly among young adults. While legalization has brought economic benefits and reduced criminal penalties, it has also raised concerns about the potential for misuse and dependency. Public health officials are closely monitoring the long-term effects of widespread marijuana use, especially its impact on mental health and cognitive development.
Methamphetamine use remains a significant and growing issue in Oregon. The state has seen a troubling rise in meth-related health and social problems, including increased rates of addiction, overdose, and drug-related crime. The accessibility and affordability of meth have contributed to its prevalence, straining public health resources and law enforcement. Efforts to combat meth use in Oregon focus on prevention, treatment, and addressing the underlying social factors that contribute to its widespread use.
Oregon is grappling with a severe opioid addiction crisis, with prescription opioids, heroin, and increasingly fentanyl, driving high overdose rates. The state’s opioid epidemic has devastated communities, leading to a surge in addiction, emergency medical responses, and fatalities. Fentanyl, in particular, poses a significant threat due to its potency and the difficulty in detecting it in other drugs. Addressing the opioid crisis in Oregon requires a multifaceted approach, including better prescription practices, harm reduction strategies, and expanded access to treatment for those struggling with addiction.
Alcohol abuse continues to be a major public health issue in Oregon, despite its legal status. The state has one of the highest rates of alcohol use disorder in the country, leading to a range of social and health problems, including liver disease, accidents, and domestic violence. Alcohol’s pervasive presence in social settings, coupled with its potential for addiction, makes it a significant challenge for public health officials. Addressing alcohol abuse in Oregon involves not only treatment for those affected but also broader public health initiatives aimed at reducing excessive drinking and its associated harms.
Crestview’s Addiction Treatment Programs
At Crestview Recovery, we offer a variety of addiction treatment programs to meet the diverse needs of our clients. Our comprehensive approach ensures that each individual receives the care and support necessary for a successful recovery.
Our residential addiction treatment program provides a structured and supportive environment for individuals to focus on their recovery. This program includes medically supervised detox, individual and group therapy, and holistic treatments to address the physical, psychological, and emotional aspects of addiction.
For those who require flexibility while undergoing treatment, our outpatient programs offer a range of services that allow clients to maintain their daily responsibilities. This includes regular counseling sessions, both individual and group, and access to medical support as needed. Our outpatient program is ideal for individuals who have completed residential treatment or those with less severe addiction issues.
Many individuals struggling with addiction also face co-occurring mental health disorders. Our dual diagnosis treatment program addresses both substance use and mental health issues simultaneously, providing integrated care that promotes overall well-being and long-term recovery.
Understanding that mental health is a critical component of addiction treatment, Crestview Recovery offers comprehensive mental health services. This includes therapy for depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other mental health conditions that often accompany substance use disorders.
Recovery is a lifelong journey, and our sober living and aftercare programs provide ongoing support for individuals transitioning back to everyday life. These programs include continued therapy, support groups, and access to resources that help prevent relapse and maintain sobriety.
How Does Drug Use in Oregon Compare to the Rest of America?
Oregon’s high rates of drug use highlight the need for effective treatment and prevention strategies. While drug use in Oregon is among the highest in the nation, the state also has a robust network of treatment providers (like Crestview Recovery) dedicated to helping individuals overcome addiction and build healthier lives. By offering comprehensive treatment programs and ongoing support, we are committed to addressing the substance use crisis in Oregon and helping our clients achieve lasting recovery.
For more information on our programs and services, or to seek help for yourself or a loved one, please contact Crestview Recovery today. Together, we can make a difference.