On the Lookout: 2023 Drug Abuse Trends
“Substance use disorders occur when the recurrent use of alcohol and/or drugs causes clinically significant impairment, including health problems, disability, and failure to meet major responsibilities at work, school, or home.” It is estimated that over 20 million people aged 12 and over suffer from a substance use disorder and nearly 1 million people have died from drug overdoses since 1999.
While those who seek treatment can recover, the road to recovery can be long and difficult especially if someone does not have the support they need to remain in recovery. A substance use disorder will affect your day-to-day life and if you are a DOT-mandated, safety-sensitive employee, it can cost you your job.
Look Out: 2023 Drug Abuse Trends
Fentanyl Trends
Opioids are the leading cause of drug overdose deaths today, with 82.3% involving fentanyl or a similar synthetic opioid. Unfortunately, fentanyl is hard to detect and can be cut into other drugs such as methamphetamine, fake prescription pills that are made to mimic painkillers, and cocaine.
In addition to existing fentanyl concerns, the USDA warns of a form of the drug that may be targeting the youth: rainbow fentanyl. It’s multicolored appearance gets the attention of young adults and even children, and it is equally as deadly as the original form.
Polysubstance Drug Abuse
“Overdose deaths from methamphetamine and other psychostimulant use are also on the rise going into 2023, including and not including synthetic opioid involvement.” Those who overdose from fentanyl and meth are typically dealing with polysubstance abuse, as mixing the two can enhance the effects and make the outcome on the body very unpredictable.
Polysubstance abuse is dangerous and deadly – the CDC reports that they account for greater than half of all overdoses.
Prevention Strategies
It’s helpful for employers to offer drug and alcohol awareness programs at work to support those employees who may be suffering from a substance use disorder. Additionally, offering wellness programs to employees creates a positive work environment and helps employees reduce stress levels.
Get in Touch With the SRS
While drug abuse trends may change from year to year, the zero-tolerance policy for safety-sensitive employees’ drug and alcohol abuse remains. If one of your employees is dealing with a substance use disorder and fails a drug and/or alcohol test consider referring them to SAP Referral Services (SRS) to start their return to duty process. We will schedule them with a qualified SAP in their area for their initial evaluation. Contact us today to learn more.