Data shows drug overdose deaths are declining in Michigan

LANSING, Mich. (WILX) – Drug overdose deaths are declining in Michigan, according to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services.

State officials attribute the new numbers to access to Naloxone or Narcan in our state. Along with continually spreading overdose awareness.

Data from 2023 shows that overdose deaths decreased by 5.7%. But despite this steady decline, people are still struggling.

“It makes me very grateful to know that we are making a difference and that I can be a part of it,” said Hunter Taylor, executive director of Lifeboat Addiction Recovery Center. “Whether it’s yourself, a family member or a friend, everyone is personally touched by it.”

Substance abuse affects thousands of people in our state, and Taylor said if those in need don't get the right help, the addiction could lead to death.

“It's frightening. “People stop breathing,” Taylor said. “It’s essentially Narcan or death.”

“We really want people to think about naloxone as a fire extinguisher. “We hope you never have to use it, but if you need it, it’s there,” said Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, chief medical executive for Michigan.

Narcan is available at vending machines or local parks, but for those who can't find it near them, it's available online for free.

MDHHS said racial disparities are still a problem. Based on 2023 data, Black residents are 2.8 times more likely to die from an overdose and American Indian/Alaska Native residents are 2.2 times more likely to die compared to white residents.

State officials say to close the gap, they will ensure substance use disorder funding reaches communities with the greatest need.

Mid-Michigan recovery resources include Lifeboat Addiction Recovery, Mid-Michigan Recovery Services and RISE Recovery Community.

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