Addiction in Texas is a big concern, just like in many other places across the country. The numbers show that many people in Texas are struggling with substance use and mental health issues, and this has been especially hard during the COVID-19 pandemic. For instance, in 2023, about 36.8% of adults in Texas reported feeling anxious or depressed, which is a bit higher than the national average. This shows that a lot of people in the state are dealing with serious mental health challenges.
The rise in substance use has also been alarming. Drug overdose deaths have been increasing over the years in Texas. Back in 2011, the rate was 10.1 deaths per 100,000 people, but by 2021, it jumped to 16.8 per 100,000. Opioid overdoses are a big part of this problem. In 2021, there were 2,770 deaths in Texas from opioid overdoses, making up more than half of all drug-related deaths in the state. This rise in opioid use is part of a bigger national crisis that has been getting worse over time.
Mental health and addiction are closely linked, and suicide is another serious issue in Texas. The state's suicide rate was higher than the national average in 2021, with a particularly high number of deaths involving firearms. This is a troubling trend that shows how deeply these issues are affecting people across Texas.
Even though many people in Texas need help, getting access to mental health and addiction treatment can be tough. There aren’t enough mental health professionals, especially in rural areas, making it hard for some people to get the care they need. In 2022, only 32.5% of the need for mental health professionals in Texas was met, which is a bit better than the national average, but still leaves many without access to care.