Data shows drug overdose deaths in Michigan are dropping

LANSING, Mich. (WILX) - According to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, the number of drug overdose deaths is dropping in Michigan.

State officials credit the new numbers to Naloxone or Narcan access in our state. Along with the continuous spread of overdose awareness.

Data from 2023 shows overdose deaths decreased by 5.7%. However, even with that steady decline, people are still struggling.

"It makes me very grateful to know that we're making a difference and I can be a part of that," said Hunter Taylor, Executive Director of Lifeboat Addiction Recovery Center. "Whether it's yourself, a family member, a friend, everybody is personally touched by this."

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

"It's terrifying. People stop breathing," said Taylor "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 you have it there," said Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, chief Medical Executive for Michigan.

Narcan can be found in vending machines or local parks, but for those struggling to find it in their area, it's available online for free .

MDHHS said racial disparities are still an issue. Based on the 2023 data, black residents are 2.8 times more likely to die of an overdose and American Indian/Alaska Native residents are 2.2 times more likely to die in comparison to white residents.

State officials say to close the gap, they're going to make sure substance use disorder funding reaches communities in the highest need.

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