New Mexico health officials announced a decline in overdose deaths in 2023, marking a positive step in the fight against substance misuse across the state.
In 2023, New Mexico recorded 948 overdose deaths, a decrease from 997 deaths in 2022 and a significant drop from 1,029 deaths in 2021, according to data from the New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH).
“These decreases are welcome news, but there is still much more to do to reduce the problem of substance misuse in New Mexico,” said NMDOH Interim Secretary Gina DeBlassie in a statement. “Substance misuse is a multifaceted and complex public health issue, and we need to continue to aggressively attack this problem.”
Despite the decline, fentanyl and methamphetamine remain significant contributors to overdose deaths in the state. Fentanyl was involved in 65% of the overdose deaths in 2023, while methamphetamine was linked to 51% of the fatalities.
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Demographic data shows that the majority of overdose deaths, about 84%, occurred among individuals aged 25-64. The 35-44 age group was particularly impacted, accounting for 26% of the total deaths.
Certain counties experienced both high numbers of overdose deaths (more than 20 deaths) and rates above the statewide age-adjusted rate of 46.3 deaths per 100,000 population. These counties include Bernalillo, Santa Fe, Rio Arriba, and San Miguel.
While the downward trend is encouraging, state officials emphasize that continued efforts are necessary to combat the root causes of substance misuse and provide resources for prevention and treatment.
