National Council Statement on Overdose Deaths

Washington, D.C. (September 19, 2024) — National Council for Mental Wellbeing President and CEO Chuck Ingoglia released the following statement on new data by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention that show a decline in drug deaths of roughly 10% nationwide. 

“This is the first good news we’ve heard in a while on this front. Let’s hope this decline in fatalities is an indication that we’re turning the corner on overdose deaths.

“The lower number of overdose fatalities may be due in part to the Food and Drug Administration’s March 2023 decision to make naloxone available over the counter, a decision we applauded. Almost every overdose death can be prevented with naloxone.

“Other strategies have proven effective, including greater access to medication. There’s nothing wrong with making methadone, buprenorphine and naltrexone easier to access. There’s nothing wrong with making harm reduction strategies and resources, like fentanyl test strips, more widely available.

“While the overall trend is positive news, it may be too early to celebrate, because it’s possible the decline in overdose deaths is not uniform. Historically, a disproportionate share of overdose deaths have occurred in Black communities, where many people struggle to get the addiction treatment medication they need. Until we can improve health equity and eliminate barriers to access for all Americans — no matter where they live — our efforts to reduce overdose deaths likely will remain uneven.

“People who use substances and people with substance use disorders are deserving of love, care and respect, just like anyone else. But no one can receive this love and support if they die from an overdose. So, let’s do a better job of helping those who seek harm reduction, treatment or recovery support. Efforts to boost prevention, harm reduction, treatment and recovery will help continue the momentum and reduce overdose deaths even further.”