Nassau County New York Addiction Hotline

Substance Abuse Statistics Nassau County New York

Nassau County, located in New York State, has a significant prevalence of substance abuse[1]. According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), the rate of illicit drug use among individuals aged 12 or older in Nassau County was 11.5% in 2019[2]. This rate is slightly lower than the national average of 13.0% but still highlights the significant issue of substance abuse in the county. Furthermore, the New York State Department of Health reports that Nassau County has seen an increase in drug overdose fatalities during the COVID-19 pandemic, with opioid-related overdose deaths increasing by 68% to nearly 5000[3]. These statistics indicate the need for increased attention and resources to address substance abuse in Nassau County.

The commonly abused substances in Nassau County include prescription opioids, heroin, cocaine, marijuana, and alcohol[4]. According to the Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS), a significant percentage of high school students in New York report abusing illicit drugs[5]. Additionally, over-the-counter (OTC) drugs are the most commonly abused substances by Americans aged 14 and older[6]. Many people mistakenly believe that prescription and OTC drugs are safer than illicit drugs, leading to increased abuse and addiction. These substances have a significant impact on the community and individuals, leading to increased healthcare costs, lost productivity, and social problems[7].

Substance abuse has a profound impact on both the community and individuals in Nassau County[8]. The consequences of substance abuse include increased risk of accidents, injuries, and death, as well as negative effects on mental health, relationships, and employment opportunities[9]. The economic burden of substance abuse is also significant, with costs associated with healthcare, criminal justice, and lost productivity[10]. Addressing substance abuse requires a comprehensive approach that includes prevention, treatment, and recovery support services[11]. By increasing public awareness and investing in evidence-based interventions, Nassau County can reduce the prevalence of substance abuse and improve the health and well-being of its residents[7].

References
1. DRUG ABUSE IN SUBURBIA – INTERIM REPORT OF THE …. from www.ojp.gov
2. National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH). from www.samhsa.gov
3. Continuing Crisis: Drug Overdose Deaths in New York. from www.osc.ny.gov
4. Drug-Related Crime – New York/New Jersey HIDTA …. from www.justice.gov/archive/ndic/pubs23/23502/crime.htm
5. Overview – New York Drug Threat Assessment. from www.justice.gov/archive/ndic/pubs2/2580/overview.htm
6. A PARENT’S GUIDE TO ACCESSING HELP. from www.nassaucountyny.gov
7. Data & Research Resources | Nassau County, NY. from www.nassaucountyny.gov/1656/Data-Research-Resources
8. Priority Area: Mental Health/Substance Abuse. from www.health.ny.gov
9. Opioid-related Data in New York State. from www.health.ny.gov/statistics/opioid/
10. Trends & Statistics | National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA). from nida.nih.gov/research-topics/trends-statistics
11. New York State Opioid Data Dashboard. from apps.health.ny.gov/public/tabvis/PHIG_Public/opioid/