September 30th, 2024

The state of Tennessee, like many across the United States, is grappling with a significant drug use and abuse problem. The challenges presented by substance abuse affect families, communities, and the healthcare system, creating a multifaceted public health crisis. While opioids have long dominated the conversation around drug addiction in the state, methamphetamines and alcohol are also substances of concern. With these issues in mind, Tennessee has made strides to address addiction through various treatment initiatives, but significant challenges remain. This blog explores the scope of drug use in Tennessee, highlights key statistics related to drug abuse and treatment efforts, and provides a detailed look at the state’s treatment infrastructure.

Tennessee’s Drug Landscape: The Substances of Concern

Opioids: A Leading Threat

The opioid crisis has ravaged communities across Tennessee, where prescription opioids, heroin, and synthetic opioids such as fentanyl remain the leading drivers of overdose deaths. While efforts to reduce the prescription of opioids have seen some success, the availability of illicit opioids has compounded the issue.

According to the Tennessee Department of Health, opioid-related overdose deaths rose sharply over the last decade. In 2022, the state recorded over 3,000 overdose deaths, with opioids responsible for approximately 80% of these fatalities. The widespread availability of synthetic opioids, particularly fentanyl, has escalated the crisis. Even small amounts of fentanyl can be fatal, making it a particularly dangerous substance in the drug market.

Methamphetamines: A Resurgent Epidemic

Methamphetamine abuse is another significant public health concern in Tennessee. After a period of decline, methamphetamine use surged in recent years, with overdose deaths linked to methamphetamine use increasing by 20% from 2020 to 2022. The state has seen a proliferation of clandestine meth labs in rural areas, though much of the supply now comes from large-scale operations outside the U.S.

Methamphetamines are particularly prevalent in rural regions, where access to treatment services may be limited, further complicating efforts to curb its use. The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) has noted a significant increase in meth-related arrests, especially in East Tennessee, which is often considered a hotspot for methamphetamine production and consumption.

Alcohol: The Underreported Issue

While opioids and methamphetamines garner the most media attention, alcohol abuse remains a persistent issue in Tennessee. Alcohol-related deaths, including those from liver disease and alcohol poisoning, have also seen an uptick. In 2021, alcohol was involved in approximately 15% of overdose deaths, and alcohol-related liver disease contributed to a rising mortality rate in both urban and rural parts of the state.

A 2022 report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) highlighted that excessive alcohol consumption costs Tennessee billions annually in healthcare expenses, lost productivity, and criminal justice costs. Despite its legality, alcohol is a potent substance of abuse, and treatment programs often encounter patients battling both alcohol and drug dependencies.

Drug Use and Abuse: Tennessee by the Numbers

Tennessee’s drug problem extends beyond opioids and methamphetamines, with an increasing number of residents struggling with polysubstance abuse—using multiple substances simultaneously. The following statistics provide a clearer picture of the state’s drug landscape:

Prevalence of Substance Use

Opioids: In 2022, over 60% of drug-related deaths in Tennessee involved synthetic opioids, particularly fentanyl. The Tennessee Department of Health estimates that approximately 70,000 residents are misusing prescription opioids, with many transitioning to illicit alternatives due to prescription limits.
Methamphetamines: Meth use has steadily risen over the past five years. A 2021 study by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) reported that 2.5% of adults in Tennessee had used methamphetamines at least once in their lifetime, with rural areas showing higher usage rates.
Alcohol: An estimated 7.2% of Tennessee adults have been diagnosed with an alcohol use disorder (AUD). The state ranks in the top 10 for binge drinking, particularly among younger adults aged 18-34.
Polysubstance Use: Many individuals seeking treatment in Tennessee report the use of more than one substance. For instance, fentanyl and methamphetamine combinations have become more common, complicating treatment and recovery efforts.

Demographic Trends in Substance Abuse

Age: Substance abuse in Tennessee affects all age groups, though certain age brackets are more vulnerable to specific drugs. Adults aged 25-44 show the highest rates of opioid overdose, while alcohol abuse is more common among individuals aged 18-34. Methamphetamine use tends to be higher among individuals in their 30s and 40s.
Gender: Men are more likely than women to report illicit drug use, though the gap narrows significantly when looking at prescription opioid misuse. Women are more likely to be prescribed opioids for chronic pain, which can lead to long-term dependency.
Geographical Hotspots: Urban areas like Nashville and Memphis see higher rates of opioid overdoses, while methamphetamine use is more concentrated in rural areas, especially in the eastern part of the state. East Tennessee, in particular, has seen a surge in meth-related arrests and fatalities.

The Socioeconomic Impact of Drug Abuse

Drug use and abuse have wide-ranging socioeconomic consequences in Tennessee. In addition to healthcare costs, the state faces significant expenses related to crime, lost productivity, and welfare support for families affected by addiction. The economic burden of the opioid crisis alone is estimated to be over $2 billion annually in Tennessee. This includes emergency services, law enforcement, judicial costs, and rehabilitation services.

Treatment Infrastructure in Tennessee

To combat the drug epidemic, Tennessee has built a robust, though sometimes overwhelmed, drug treatment infrastructure. The state offers various treatment modalities, ranging from inpatient rehabilitation centers to outpatient services and community-based programs.

Types of Treatment Programs

Inpatient Rehabilitation: Tennessee is home to several inpatient treatment facilities, which offer medically supervised detoxification and intensive therapy. These centers are particularly important for individuals dealing with severe addiction or those who require a safe environment to recover away from their home environment. Facilities such as Cumberland Heights, located in Nashville, are nationally recognized for their comprehensive treatment programs, which blend medical care with emotional and spiritual support.
Outpatient Services: Outpatient programs provide a more flexible option for individuals who need treatment but cannot commit to a residential facility. These services range from intensive outpatient programs (IOP) to less structured, ongoing therapy options. Outpatient services are critical for individuals who have work or family obligations or for those in the early stages of addiction.
Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT): MAT has become an essential component of Tennessee’s response to the opioid crisis. Medications like buprenorphine and methadone help reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms, allowing individuals to engage more fully in therapy and other recovery services. As of 2023, there are over 150 MAT providers across the state, offering life-saving treatment to those battling opioid addiction.
12-Step Programs: Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA) continue to play a crucial role in addiction recovery in Tennessee. These peer-led programs are widely available in both urban and rural areas, providing ongoing support for those in recovery.
Holistic and Alternative Therapies: Increasingly, Tennessee treatment centers are incorporating holistic approaches to care. These may include yoga, meditation, and art therapy, designed to treat the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. Holistic care often complements traditional treatment methods and can be particularly effective for individuals with co-occurring mental health disorders.

Success Rates and Challenges

While treatment success varies depending on numerous factors, including the type of addiction, duration, and individual circumstances, Tennessee treatment centers have made significant strides in helping individuals achieve long-term recovery. Success rates for those completing inpatient treatment are around 50-60%, though relapse remains a concern, particularly for opioid and methamphetamine users.

One of the biggest challenges Tennessee treatment providers face is the growing demand for services. The opioid crisis, in particular, has strained the state’s treatment infrastructure, with some regions experiencing long wait times for inpatient care. Rural areas are especially affected, as they often lack the resources and services available in larger cities.

Another challenge is the stigma associated with seeking treatment. Many individuals, particularly in rural and conservative areas, are hesitant to seek help for substance abuse due to fear of judgment or social repercussions. This stigma can delay intervention and contribute to higher rates of overdose and untreated addiction.

Government and Community Efforts

Tennessee has launched several initiatives to address the drug epidemic, focusing on prevention, treatment, and recovery support. Programs like the Tennessee Opioid Response (TOR) aim to expand access to treatment, increase public awareness about the dangers of opioid misuse, and provide support for individuals and families affected by addiction. Additionally, the Tennessee Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (TDMHSAS) continues to work with local communities to establish recovery courts, peer support networks, and community-based recovery centers.

Seeking Help: Resources for Those Affected by Addiction

If you or someone you love is struggling with substance abuse, there are resources available across Tennessee. Whether you’re seeking inpatient care, outpatient services, or peer support, these organizations can provide guidance and assistance:

Cumberland Heights (Nashville): One of Tennessee’s most renowned treatment centers, offering a full continuum of care, including detox, residential treatment, and outpatient services.
Tennessee REDLINE: A confidential, toll-free information and referral line for alcohol, drug, problem gambling, and mental health services: 1-800-889-9789.
Tennessee Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (TDMHSAS): This state department provides resources for individuals seeking help with substance abuse or mental health challenges, including directories for treatment centers and recovery programs.

Tennessee Association of Alcohol, Drug, & Other Addiction Services (TAADAS): TAADAS offers educational resources, support groups, and a directory of treatment providers in the state. They also advocate for addiction policy reform and increased funding for treatment services.
12-Step Programs: Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA) meetings are widely available across Tennessee, providing essential peer support for individuals in recovery. These meetings are free and open to anyone seeking help with addiction.
MAT Providers: For individuals struggling with opioid addiction, Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) providers across the state offer medications like methadone and buprenorphine, alongside counseling and other recovery support services. Contact the Tennessee Opioid Treatment Authority (TOTA) for a list of certified providers.
Community Mental Health Centers: These centers offer both mental health and substance abuse services, often on a sliding fee scale or through Medicaid. They provide an accessible option for individuals who may not have private insurance.

Looking Forward: The Future of Drug Treatment in Tennessee

Tennessee has made significant progress in addressing its drug addiction crisis, but the fight is far from over. Continued efforts are needed to expand access to treatment, especially in rural and underserved areas, while also addressing the unique challenges posed by synthetic opioids like fentanyl and the resurgence of methamphetamine use.

One promising development is the integration of mental health services with substance abuse treatment. Tennessee is increasingly recognizing that many individuals struggling with addiction also face co-occurring mental health disorders, such as anxiety, depression, and PTSD. The state’s push for integrated care models ensures that both issues are treated simultaneously, improving the chances of long-term recovery.

In addition, Tennessee is focusing on harm reduction strategies, such as naloxone distribution, syringe exchange programs, and overdose prevention education. These efforts aim to reduce the immediate risks of drug use, while also connecting individuals to treatment and recovery services.

Public awareness campaigns are also playing a crucial role in reducing the stigma surrounding addiction and encouraging more people to seek help. The state’s efforts to educate communities about the dangers of substance misuse, coupled with increasing access to life-saving treatments, are slowly making a difference.

In conclusion, Tennessee’s drug addiction landscape is complex and challenging, with opioids, methamphetamines, and alcohol posing significant threats to public health and safety. However, the state has not stood idle in the face of this crisis. From expanding treatment infrastructure to increasing public awareness, Tennessee has taken meaningful steps toward addressing the root causes of addiction and providing individuals with the resources they need to recover.

While challenges remain—particularly in rural areas where access to care is limited—the state continues to push forward with innovative treatment models and community-driven initiatives. By focusing on integrated care, harm reduction, and reducing the stigma around addiction, Tennessee is laying the groundwork for a healthier future.

For anyone struggling with substance abuse, help is available. Whether through inpatient rehabilitation, outpatient services, peer support groups, or medication-assisted treatment, Tennessee offers a wide range of options to help individuals reclaim their lives from addiction. No one should face the battle alone, and the resources outlined in this blog are a testament to the state’s commitment to supporting its residents on their path to recovery.

Additional Resources

SAMHSA National Helpline: A free, confidential, 24/7 treatment referral and information service for individuals and families facing mental and substance use disorders: 1-800-662-HELP (4357).
Overdose Lifeline, Inc.: This organization provides naloxone training and distribution programs in Tennessee, helping to save lives from opioid overdoses.
Tennessee Recovery Navigators: Part of the Tennessee Opioid Response initiative, these individuals are often in long-term recovery themselves and provide support for those navigating the complex process of finding treatment.
Partnership to End Addiction: Provides resources and support for families struggling with a loved one’s addiction. Their helpline offers personalized guidance for parents and caregivers.

By continuing to expand treatment options, raise awareness, and foster community support, Tennessee can make strides in combating substance abuse and helping those in need find a path to lasting recovery.

About Cumberland Heights

Cumberland Heights was founded in 1966 with a firm, focused mission: to transform lives, giving hope and healing to those affected by alcohol or drug addiction.

We’re a nonprofit organization, a resource of leading clinical expertise, and the first Tennessee addiction treatment center to achieve certification from the American Society of Addiction Medicine. We’re also a community. At Cumberland Heights, staff, alumni, and advocates walk with each patient through every step on the journey to recovery, helping them rewrite their story – a story of hope, healing, and happiness.

We exist to serve those who are seeking addiction treatment in Middle Tennessee, and we have a Cumberland Heights program near you! Our main campus is located in Nashville, Tennessee, but we have treatment centers across the state of Tennessee in Jackson, Chattanooga, Knoxville, Murfreesboro, Franklin, Clarksville, Crossville, Cookeville, and more.

We’re here to help. If you or a loved one would like to learn more about Cumberland Heights, click here or call 615-314-3856.