Drug and alcohol abuse remain significant and growing problems in Arizona and throughout the United States. Since 2019, rates of drug and alcohol addiction have been rising, as well as rates of fatal overdose. There’s a glimmer of hope, though, as overdose rates decreased in 2023 for the first time in 6 years.
This guide highlights drug addiction statistics in Arizona, explores mortality rates in the state due to drug overdose, and explains what’s involved in effective substance abuse treatment.
The Dangers of Drug Abuse
Drug abuse can cause serious problems for both the body and mind. When people abuse drugs, they can get very sick. Some common physical effects include feeling dizzy, weak, and having trouble breathing. Some drugs like fentanyl and other opioids are so dangerous that they can stop the heart or cause other organs to fail.
Drug abuse also changes how the brain works. It can make it hard to think clearly or remember things. People who abuse drugs often feel sad, anxious, or angry for no reason. These changes can make it difficult to do well in school or at work. Relationships with family and friends can suffer, as people might become distant, secretive, or aggressive.
One of the biggest dangers of drug abuse is addiction. Drugs can be highly addictive, meaning once someone starts using them, it can be extremely hard to stop, even if it’s causing harm in all areas of their life. As tolerance builds, many people take increasingly more of the drug to get the same feeling, which increases the risk of serious health problems or overdose.
If you or someone you know is battling drug abuse, reaching out for support can make a big difference. Getting help can prevent the serious health issues and life problems caused by drug abuse – almost all addictions improve once treated.
Drug Statistics in Arizona
In Arizona, many people struggle with drug misuse. Between 2018 and 2019, about 215,000 adults in Arizona were found to be abusing pain relievers. The most commonly misused drugs were opioids, like prescription painkillers, and benzodiazepines, which are often prescribed for anxiety.
Several factors contribute to these Arizona drug statistics. Some people don’t know enough about the risks of prescription drugs. Others might share their medication with friends or family, which is dangerous. Sometimes, doctors prescribe too many pills, or people visit multiple doctors to get extra medication, a practice known as doctor shopping.
The misuse of prescription drugs can lead to serious problems. Arizona hospitals have seen more cases of overdoses from opioid painkillers. There has also been an increase in DUI arrests related to drug use.
Another substance abuse issue in Arizona is binge drinking. About 1,266,000 people reported binge drinking during a survey period. Binge drinking can be linked to stress, depression, or other mental health issues. Some people may become dependent on alcohol, meaning they need it to feel normal.
If you or someone you care about is abusing any addictive substance, reaching out for support can make a major difference in preventing these serious consequences.
Mortality Rates in Arizona Due to Drug Overdose
Drug overdoses are a serious problem in Arizona. In 2022, 2,664 people died from drug overdoses in the state. Out of these, 1,915 deaths were due to opioids, which are highly dangerous Schedule II drugs.
The mortality rate for drug overdoses in Arizona is 37.2 out of every 100,000 people.
The impact of opioid overdoses is not the same for everyone. Males, people aged 35 to 44, and the Black or African American population have the highest death rates. Non-fatal opioid overdoses also show differences. They mostly affect males, people aged 25 to 34, and the Black or African American population.
Non-fatal opioid overdoses were highest in the summer months of July and August 2022. The numbers went down after summer but went up again in December. Fentanyl, a very strong opioid, was the most common drug involved in these non-fatal overdoses. Often, more than one drug was found in these cases.
Emergency medical services and law enforcement officers played a central role in helping people who overdosed. They often used Naloxone, a medicine that can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. Naloxone was used in more than 78% of their responses to suspected opioid overdoses. Pharmacies also helped by giving out more Naloxone, with a 19% increase in 2022.
Addiction Treatments in Arizona
If you need help for addiction in Arizona, there are many options available to support recovery. Understanding the different types of treatments can help you or a loved one take the first step toward a healthier sober life.
Detoxification
The first step in addiction treatment is often detoxification, or detox. Detox helps the body eliminate drugs. This process can be hard and uncomfortable because the body is used to the drug. During detox, people might feel sick or have strong cravings. To help with this, doctors sometimes give medications approved by the FDA to make the symptoms easier to handle. Detox can be done at home, but it is safer in a hospital or a special detox center where medical staff can help.
Inpatient rehab
After detox, many people go to inpatient rehab. Inpatient rehab means staying at a treatment center all day and night for a certain period, usually from 30 to 90 days. This type of rehab provides 24-hour care and support. People in inpatient rehab attend therapy sessions, participate in group activities, and learn new skills to stay drug-free. The stay can last from a few weeks to several months, depending on the person’s needs.
Outpatient rehab
Outpatient rehab is another option. In outpatient rehab, people live at home and go to a treatment center for therapy and support. This is a good choice for people who have a strong support system at home and can handle the responsibilities of daily life while getting treatment. Outpatient rehab offers more flexibility, so people can continue working or going to school while they get help.
Therapy and counseling
Therapy is a core component of addiction treatment. There are different types of therapy, such as:
- Individual therapy: One-on-one sessions with a counselor to talk about personal issues and find ways to cope with cravings and stress.
- Group therapy: Sessions where people with similar experiences share and support each other. Group therapy helps people feel less alone and learn from others.
- Family therapy: Sessions that involve family members. This helps families understand addiction and learn how to support their loved one in recovery.
- MAT: MAT (medication-assisted treatment) can also help in the treatment of addiction. Some medications reduce cravings and make it easier to stay drug-free. For example, methadone and buprenorphine help people addicted to opioids. These medicines can be part of a bigger treatment plan that includes therapy and counseling.
Behavioral therapies
Behavioral therapies help people change their attitudes and behaviors related to drug use. Types of behavioral therapies include:
- CBT: CBT (cognitive-behavioral therapy) helps people recognize and avoid situations that might lead to drug use.
- Contingency management: Uses rewards to encourage staying drug-free.
- Motivational interviewing: Helps people find the motivation to start and stick with treatment.
Self-help groups
Self-help groups like NA (Narcotics Anonymous) and AA (Alcoholics Anonymous) provide ongoing support. These groups follow a 12-step program where people share their experiences and support each other. Being part of a self-help group can help people stay motivated and feel connected to others who understand their struggles.
Arizona has many resources to help people with addiction. Whether it’s inpatient rehab, outpatient rehab, therapy, or self-help groups, there are options to fit everyone’s needs. If you or someone you know is fighting drug addiction, reaching out for help can mean the difference between recovery and relapse. There are many caring professionals in Arizona ready to provide support and guidance on the path to recovery.
Drug Abuse | FAQs
How do I know if I am addicted to drugs?
You might be addicted to drugs if you find it hard to stop using them, think about them often, or continue using them even when they cause problems in your life. Physical signs include cravings and withdrawal symptoms when not using the drug. If you’re unsure, talking to a healthcare provider can help you understand your situation.
Where can I find help for drug abuse in Arizona?
Help for drug abuse in Arizona is available through various resources such as local treatment centers, support groups, and hotlines. You can start by calling the Arizona Addiction Hotline for guidance and referrals to nearby services. Additionally, your doctor or local health department can provide information on available treatment options.
What is the most used drug in Arizona?
The most commonly used drug in Arizona is opioids, including prescription painkillers and illegal drugs like heroin and fentanyl. These drugs are frequently misused and are a leading cause of overdose deaths in the state.
Find a Drug Addiction Treatment Center Near You by Calling Addiction Hotline
If you have been battling drug addiction or alcoholism, calling a substance abuse helpline can be a valuable starting point.
When you call our hotline toll-free, you can speak with a trained and compassionate expert ready to answer your queries on drug addiction and recovery.
If you’re ready to move ahead with treatment, hotline staff can help you find detox centers across Arizona where you can begin your recovery the right way. Ongoing treatment is almost always required, so we’ll also help you connect with inpatient or outpatient rehab, depending on your needs and the severity of your substance abuse.
Call 844-575-6602 and begin your recovery right away.
