The United States is in the midst of a substance use crisis. In 2022, there were over 109,000 drug overdose deaths, the highest number ever recorded in a single year. This crisis is having a devastating impact on families and communities across the country. The KFF July 2023 Tracking Poll found that a majority of adults state they have been impacted by the substance use crisis in the United States. “Two-thirds say either they or a family member have been addicted to alcohol or drugs, experienced homelessness due to addiction, or experienced a drug overdose leading to an emergency room visit, hospitalization, or death (KFF, 2023).”

Alongside a variety of socio-economic factors, the COVID-19 pandemic has also played a role in the substance use crisis. The pandemic has caused stress, isolation, and financial hardship for many people. This has led to an increase in substance use as a way to cope with these challenges.

The substance use crisis is a complex problem with no easy solutions. However, there are a number of things that can be done to address this crisis. One important step is to expand access to treatment for substance use disorders. Currently, there is a shortage of healthcare providers in the United States. This makes it difficult for people who need treatment to get the help they need.

The substance use crisis is a serious problem, but it is not insurmountable. By taking steps to expand access to treatment and reduce the availability of illicit drugs, we can save lives and start to turn the tide on this crisis. To see steps that have been taken by Dr. Lanny Wilson, Dean of Clinical Sciences at Avalon University, and the HOPE Task Force in DuPage County, IL to provide aid during this crisis, click HERE.

In addition to the steps mentioned above, there are a number of other things that can be done to address the substance use crisis in the United States. These include:

• Increasing funding for research on substance use disorders.
• Raising awareness of the signs and symptoms of substance use disorders.
• Destigmatizing substance use disorders and addiction.
• Providing support for families and friends of people with substance use disorders.

The substance use crisis is a challenge that we can only overcome by working together. By taking action on all of these fronts, we can save lives and build a healthier future for all.

Dr. Lanny Wilson, Dean of Clinical Sciences