Substance Use in Western NC
Over 50% of adults in Western North Carolina have reported that their life has been negatively affected by substance use – by either themselves or by someone. Compare this to US data, which shows 45%. (WNCHN, 2024)
Substance use refers to the use of selected substances, including alcohol, tobacco products, illicit drugs, inhalants, and other substances that can be consumed, inhaled, injected, or otherwise absorbed into the body with possible dependence and other detrimental effects. (CDC, 2024)
Prevalence of Substance Use
Source: WNCHN, 2024
Within the region, Cherokee, Swain, and Macon counties present the highest prevalence, falling between 30.6% – 34.2%.
What’s the Regional Story Behind the Numbers?
What is Helping
MAT (Medication-Assisted Treatment)
Suboxone clinics
Peer support groups and recovery programs
Drug court programs
Community outreach and peer-led harm reduction
Prevention, education, and early intervention
Workforce and housing support
Policy and funding infrastructure
What is Hurting
Availability of substances (e.g., fentanyl, vape shops, overprescription)
Limited treatment options and underfunded systems
Poverty, unemployment, and other social determinants
Lack of tobacco-free spaces and social activities
Stigma, shame, and generational trauma
Legal gray areas
Marketing and normalization of use
Who is Most Impacted
Youth and adolescents
LGBTQ+ individuals
Older adults and isolated seniors
People involved with the criminal justice system
Uninsured and underinsured individuals
Low-income households
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