Drug abuse is a growing problem in Colorado. Many people are affected by drugs like heroin, meth, and LSD. These drugs can be extremely harmful to your health and well-being.
Understanding the facts and statistics can help us support those in need and find better ways to fight drug abuse. By learning more, we can work together to make Colorado a safer place. Read on for Colorado drug abuse statistics and discover how to get effective and compassionate addiction treatment.
What Is Drug Abuse?
Need Help Getting
Addiction Treatment?
Drug abuse is defined as someone using drugs in a way that’s harmful to their body and mind. This can include using illegal drugs like heroin or meth. It can also mean using prescription drugs in ways that are not safe, like taking too much or using someone else’s medication – this is especially prevalent with opioids and benzos.
People abuse drugs for different reasons. Some might do it to feel good or to escape problems by self-medicating. Others might start because of peer pressure or curiosity. No matter the reason, drug abuse can lead to major problems in all areas of life.
Drug abuse can trigger or inflame many health issues. It can hurt your brain, heart, and other organs. Substance abuse can also make it hard to think clearly, remember things, and make good choices. Over time, abusing drugs can lead to dependence and addiction, where your body feels like it needs the drug to feel normal.
Addiction is a chronic condition that makes it very hard to stop using drugs. People with addiction might keep using drugs even when they know it’s bad for them. They might try to quit but find it really hard because their body craves the drug.
Drug abuse doesn’t just hurt the person using drugs. It can also affect their family and friends. Relationships can suffer, and people might lose their jobs or have trouble at school. It can also lead to legal problems if someone gets caught with illicit drugs.
Get help if you or someone you know is abusing drugs. There are many treatment options available, like counseling and medical interventions. Support from family and friends can also make a big difference in recovery. The sooner someone gets help, the better their chances of overcoming drug abuse and leading a healthy life – addictive is a progressive disorder that usually gets worse unless treated.
Colorado Drug Statistics | Heroin
Heroin continues to be a major drug threat in Colorado. Many people who initially misuse prescription opioids transition to heroin due to its lower cost and higher availability – it’s estimated that 80% of those who use heroin first used prescription opioid painkillers. This shift has led to an increase in heroin-related overdose deaths in the state.
0.35% of Colorado residents reported past-year heroin use, according to data from SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration).
Colorado Drug Statistics | Meth
Meth abuse has seen a significant rise in Colorado. SAMHSA report that the state has experienced a yearly increase in treatment admissions for meth abuse since 1999, while admissions for other substances like cocaine and heroin have declined. Meth is highly addictive and can lead to severe health issues, including cardiovascular problems and mental health disorders.
0.9% of Colorado residents reported past-year meth use, according to SAMHSA data.
Colorado Drug Statistics | LSD
LSD use in Colorado – especially among teenagers and young adults – remains a concern. Although LSD is not as lethal as heroin or meth, it can cause mental health issues such as hallucinations, anxiety, and psychosis.
0.35% of Colorado residents report past-year LSD use, according to SAMHSA data.
Facts About Mortality Rates in Colorado Affected by Drug Abuse
Before the pandemic, 0.8% of people aged 12 or older in Colorado reported using opioids in the past year. Many others reported using other illegal drugs and alcohol. For example, 2% of teens and 8.8% of adults had alcohol use disorder in the past year. Also, 4.7% of teens and 5.0% of adults reported using illegal drugs in the past year.
From 2015 to 2020, drug overdose deaths in Colorado increased from 15 to 25 per 100,000 people. This is a rise of 62% in five years. In 2020, there were 987 fatal opioid overdoses, making up 65% of all deaths associated with drug overdose in the state.
Between 2011 and 2021, the rate of opioid overdose deaths in Colorado went from 8 to 22 per 100,000 people. During the same time, the age-adjusted rate of all drug overdose deaths increased from 16 to 31 per 100,000 people. This means that about half of all overdose deaths in 2011 and more than two-thirds in 2021 were caused by opioids.
Colorado Drug Abuse | FAQs
How do I know if I am abusing drugs or addicted to them?
You might be abusing drugs if you can’t stop using them or if you need more to feel the same. Changes in your behavior or health can also be signs. Trouble at school or work might mean you need help.
How can I find a good treatment center in Colorado?
Look for a center that offers counseling and medical help. You can ask your doctor for advice or search online. Reading reviews can also help you choose the right place.
If I am addicted to alcohol, does that count as drug abuse?
Yes, being addicted to alcohol is a type of drug abuse. Alcohol is a drug and abusing any addictive substance can harm your health. Getting help can streamline your recovery.
Find the Perfect Addiction Treatment Center at Addiction Hotline
If you need help for yourself or a loved one addicted to drugs or alcohol, calling a substance abuse helpline is a sensible first step.
You can call Addiction Hotline toll-free and 24/7. Trained and compassionate staff are waiting to answer any questions you have about addiction and recovery.
For those who are ready to start recovery right away, hotline staff can recommend medical detox centers across Colorado. Supervised drug or alcohol detox makes the process safer and easier, preparing you for ongoing treatment. Staff can also connect you with support groups, outpatient treatment centers, and inpatient rehabs throughout the state to help you get sober and stay sober.
For immediate help dealing with drug or alcohol addiction, call 855-701-0479.
