Addiction and mental health are big concerns in Kansas, just like they are across the United States. Let's take a look at what the statistics tell us about addiction in this state.
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First, it's important to know that mental health conditions, such as depression and anxiety, can make addiction problems worse. In Kansas, about 30.5% of adults reported having symptoms of anxiety or depression in early 2023. This is close to the national average, showing that many people in the state are dealing with mental health issues. When mental health challenges aren't addressed, they can lead to substance use disorders as people might try to cope with their feelings through drugs or alcohol.
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The number of deaths due to drug overdoses in Kansas has been rising over the years. In 2021, the drug overdose death rate in Kansas was 24.3 per 100,000 people, which is more than double what it was in 2011. Opioids are a big part of this problem, with 64% of all drug overdose deaths in Kansas in 2021 being caused by opioids. This is a serious issue that continues to affect many families across the state.
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Suicide is another concern linked to mental health and substance abuse. In 2021, the suicide rate in Kansas was higher than the national average. Suicide by firearm was particularly high in the state. Mental health support is crucial in preventing these tragedies, but many people in Kansas are not able to get the help they need. About 37.7% of adults in Kansas who needed counseling or therapy reported not receiving it in the past four weeks in 2022, which is higher than the national average.
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The shortage of mental health professionals in Kansas makes it harder for people to get the treatment they need. The state has only met 26% of the need for mental health professionals, which is slightly below the national average. This shortage, especially in rural areas, means that many people who need help might have to wait a long time or travel far to get the care they need.