New Jersey Addiction Statistics
Heroin and prescription opiates are a significant problem in New Jersey. Drug overdose deaths have increased over 50% since 2010, many of which have been attributed to heroin and prescription drugs. The largest demographic affected by these drugs – representing 40% of the deaths – are under 25 years old. Prescription drugs are obtained by abusers through diversion from pharmacies using illegal tactics. Because of the high cost of prescription medications, heroin use has increased as addicts who cannot afford pills turn to heroin to sustain their habit.
Marijuana is prevalent in New Jersey and available in every area of the state. Most marijuana available in New Jersey is imported from Canada and other US states. Marijuana use among high school-aged students is slightly lower than national rates. Marijuana is legal for medicinal use in New Jersey.
Cocaine and crack cocaine are slightly common in New Jersey, though not nearly to the same extent as opiates and marijuana. Methamphetamine is rarely used in New Jersey.
Around 60% of New Jersey residents drink casually at a rate of at least one alcoholic beverage per month, which is four points higher than the national average. Likewise, about 43% of high school-aged residents of New Jersey have had one or more alcoholic beverages in the past month, which is also four points higher than average. However, binge drinking rates are significantly lower in New Jersey than nationally.
Despite being home to Atlantic City, a city where gambling is popular, New Jersey only has slightly heightened rates of problem gambling and gambling addiction. Approximately 2.8% of residents display problem gambling.
New Jersey does not exhibit any other rates of behavioral disorders that differ significantly from national averages.