In 2023, the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) highlighted significant trends in substance use across the U.S. Provisional data indicated that drug use remained prevalent among young adults, with high rates of opioid overdose and alcohol use disorder (AUD).
Illicit drugs, such as cocaine and synthetic opioids like fentanyl, continued to impact many lives, contributing to a rise in drug overdose deaths. Marijuana and synthetic cannabinoids were also commonly used. The NSDUH report noted increases in substance abuse disorders and severe thoughts of suicide among affected individuals.