Kentucky Addiction & Rehab Statistics

Kentucky continues to face significant challenges related to drug and alcohol addiction, with thousands of residents affected each year. Overdose deaths remain a serious public health concern, and many individuals seek treatment to regain control of their lives. Rehab programs across the state provide structured care, counseling, and support services to help patients safely recover, build healthy habits, and maintain long-term sobriety. This page provides information on addiction trends, treatment options, and recovery resources available in Kentucky.

Kentucky Addiction & Rehab Statistics Reports

2024 Kentucky Overdose Fatality Report (Kentucky Justice & Public Safety Cabinet)

• Overdose deaths in Kentucky decreased 30.2% in 2024 compared to 2023.
• 1,410 Kentuckians died from drug overdoses in 2024.
• Fentanyl present in 62.3% of overdose deaths; methamphetamine in 50.8%.
• Multiple age groups saw declines; the only increase was in ages 75–84.

KENTUCKY – 2022‑2023 State‑Specific NSDUH Tables (SAMHSA)

• Substance Use by Age Group (Annual averages, thousands of people)
  • Illicit drug use in the past month: ~519k total; highest in 18‑25 (93k) and 26+ (403k).
  • Marijuana use: ~651k total; ~132k for 18‑25 and ~482k for 26+.
  • Alcohol use (past month): ~1.6M total; ~198k ages 18‑25; ~1.38M 26+.
  • Binge alcohol use: ~704k total; ~119k ages 18‑25; ~575k 26+.
  • Tobacco use (past month): ~926k total; majority in ages 26+ (840k).
• Substance Use Disorders (SUD) by Age Group (Annual average, by age group)
  • Any substance use disorder (past year): ~663k overall.
    SAMHSA
  • ~28k ages 12‑17
  • ~115k ages 18‑25
  • ~519k ages 26+
  • Alcohol use disorder: ~376k total.
  • Drug use disorder: ~363k total; includes opioids and pain reliever use disorders (~119k each).
• Treatment & Needs
• ~225k people received substance use treatment in the past year.
• ~763k were classified as needing treatment.
• ~528k of those needing treatment did not receive it.