As Thanksgiving approaches, Americans have much to be grateful for this year as opioid-related deaths have decreased for the twelfth consecutive month. The opioid epidemic has claimed the lives of too many loved ones in recent years, but recent data shows a positive trend with a 3% decrease in deaths from 2022 to 2023. In the first half of 2024, there were 70,655 opioid-related deaths compared to 86,401 in the same period in 2023.
This decrease in opioid-related deaths is a hopeful sign for families across the country who have been affected by this crisis. As many gather around the Thanksgiving table, there may be empty spaces that serve as a poignant reminder of those who are no longer with us. However, the decrease in opioid deaths offers a glimmer of hope and a reason to be grateful for progress in addressing this public health crisis.
Thanksgiving is a time for reflection and gratitude, and this year, Americans can be thankful for the progress being made in combatting the opioid epidemic. While there is still much work to be done, the decrease in opioid-related deaths is a positive development that serves as a reminder of the importance of coming together as a community to support those who are struggling with addiction. This Thanksgiving, let us continue to show gratitude for the progress being made and the lives that have been saved as a result.
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