Oregon, like the rest of the U.S., is experiencing an opioid crisis involving misuse, overdoses, and deaths. The types of drugs that most commonly cause overdose in Oregon have changed significantly in recent years. While the state has made notable progress in reducing misuse and overdoses related to prescription opioids, there have been significant increases in overdoses from fentanyl and from non-opioid drugs such as methamphetamine, which are often mixed with opioids.
More than half of overdose deaths in Oregon involve more than one drug and/or alcohol. For more information about fentanyl, stimulants, and mixing substances (polysubstance use), please reference the links below:
Oregon’s overdose crisis has impacted every community, but some communities are affected more than others. Black/African American and American Indian/Alaska Native communities are experiencing the highest rates of fatal overdoses. Other populations at higher risk of overdose include males; people aged 34-44; LGBTQIA2S+ people; people with substance use, alcohol, or mental health disorders; people recently released from jail or prison; and people experiencing houselessness.
Oregon’s overdose disparities are closely tied to systemic racism, generational trauma, and long-standing health inequities. There are large gaps in Oregon’s substance use disorder treatment services, where the demand and need for these services outweigh the availability of resources. Furthermore, there is limited access to culturally and linguistically appropriate services in Oregon. This further contributes to inequities among communities experiencing health disparities.
Substance use disorder is a chronic, treatable medical condition. It is not a choice or a character flaw. People who use drugs commonly face discrimination and stigma that impacts their wellbeing and discourages them from seeking help. This can increase the risk for overdose and other substance use-related harms.
People who use drugs, people who are houseless, and people who have mental health disorders also experience negative stereotypes, many of which are false. Oregon is experiencing a co-occurring housing crisis and overdose crisis; however, most fatal overdoses in Oregon occur in a house or apartment, not in a public setting.
There are several complex factors contributing to Oregon’s overdose crisis, including racism, stigma, affordable housing, healthcare access, economic opportunity, climate change, and other forms of individual- and community-level trauma. Addressing these issues will require partnerships and coordination across systems to promote improved quality of life and wellbeing among all Oregonians.