New Report Shows Deaths Due to Drug Overdose and Alcohol Are Down Nationally but Uneven Across Population Groups

A new report from Trust for America’s Health, Pain in the Nation 2025, reveals a second consecutive year of decline in U.S. deaths from alcohol, drugs, and suicide—yet over 200,000 lives were still lost in 2023, double the toll from two decades ago.

Public health progress is evident, including a 27% drop in overdose deaths, but racial and age disparities remain stark, especially for American Indian/Alaska Native populations. The report urges sustained federal investment in behavioral health systems, real-time overdose tracking, harm reduction, and community-based mental health access. Public health communicators play a crucial role in advocating for prevention and shaping local interventions. Read the full report from TFAH here.