The MA Department of Public Health reports the largest single year decline in opioid-related overdose deaths in 13 years. The report notes the work still to be done, including increasing access to peer-led spaces to support those in recovery as well as the need to prioritize prevention, treatment and recovery efforts.
At BHI, we aim to fill the gaps in supports for Cape & Island teens struggling with substance use and/or mental health issues. Getting ahead of the trajectory of addiction in our youth is critical in lowering the number of overdose deaths. Our harm reduction Alternative Peer Group (APG) Programs are located in Dennis and Falmouth, which the report cites had a notable decrease in opioid-related overdose deaths in 2023.
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BOSTON — Opioid-related overdose deaths in Massachusetts decreased by 10 percent in 2023 – the largest single-year decline since 2009-2010 – according to preliminary data released today by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH).
There were 2,125 confirmed and estimated opioid-related overdose deaths in 2023, which is 232 fewer than in 2022, when Massachusetts had a record 2,357 fatal opioid-related overdoses. Last year’s opioid-related overdose death rate also decreased by 10 percent to 30.2 per 100,000 people compared to 33.5 in 2022.
“While we are encouraged by the overall decrease in overdose deaths, this report also is a reminder of the work that we still need to do to bring deaths down for all people and all areas of the state,” said Governor Maura Healey. “Our administration remains committed to prioritizing prevention, treatment and recovery efforts to address the overdose crisis that continues to claim too many lives and devastate too many families in Massachusetts.”