Nevada’s rate of opioid-related fatalities has not been as drastic as other states and is currently lower than the national average. In 2023, 949 residents in The Silver State died from drug overdoses. However, many residents have had to pay a high price, as Nevada is among the most expensive states for drug rehab services. The exorbitant costs have made free substance abuse resources in Nebraska a priority for the public and policymakers.
Drug Statistics in Nevada
Addiction Nonprofits in Nevada
Join Together Northern Nevada (JTNN)
This organization provides education resources, outreach programs, and workshops for children, parents, and families in Northern Nevada. The center emphasizes substance abuse prevention and is partnered with the Boys and Girls Club and Big Brothers and Big Sisters.
Care Coalition
This non-profit organization, centered in Clark County, focuses on substance use disorder prevention, awareness, and recovery. The group has partnered with communities and businesses to create outreach programs for youths, women, seniors, and families.
Reno Corp–Salvation Army
This branch of the Salvation Army provides treatment for substance use disorder through inpatient services, faith-based counseling, and enrollment in 12 Steps Programs. This 6-month program is free for individuals who do not have a steady income.
PACT Coalition
This group provides resources and stigma reduction for residents in Southern Nevada. The center maintains a crisis hotline and offers outreach programs for youths, teachers, parents, and medical providers. Drug disposal services are also available.
Harm Reduction Programs
Home Reduction Center Las Vegas
This center provides Narcan, drug testing kits, and strips, first aid, syringe exchange, and peer support programs for clients, including sex workers. A vending machine is accessible through free vending cards. Narcan and harm reduction supplies are also free.
South Nevada Health District
This health center provides training and resources for drug testing, naloxone use, overdose prevention strategies, and emergency services. The agency also makes available primary health care and clinics.
Northern Nevada Hopes
This organization, centered near Reno, offers free services and resources, including drug testing, naloxone, and personal and sex hygiene material. Syringe exchange and other services are accessible for a fee. A mobile unit is also available.
Government Grants & Resources
Substance Use Prevention, Treatment, and Recovery Services
This state agency provides a directory for treating substance use disorder. Resources include regional data, information for pregnant and postpartum women, and a hotline.
Nevada Department of Corrections: Substance Abuse Program
This government-funded program centers on justice-involved clients to assist in their reentry into their communities. Programs include medication-assisted treatment, counseling, and life skills/career coaching.
Nevada Treatment Court Program
Like the Department of Corrections Substance Abuse Program, this initiative focuses on the reintegration of justice-involved veterans with alcohol and substance use disorder back into society through a safe and thorough recovery.
Crisis Support Services of Nevada
These government-sponsored crisis hotlines provide assistance and resources for individuals and relatives impacted by substance use disorder. Special services are available for Spanish speakers, the LGBTQ+ community, and veterans.
College Addiction Resources
Nevada State University
Nevada State University offers its policies regarding alcohol consumption and substance use, along with contact information for local resources for students impacted by chemical dependencies.
University of Nevada–Reno: Nevada’s Recovery and Prevention Program
This student-led program offers peer support, 12 Step Programs, and mentorships, and community events. Students who wish to join must fill out an application and meet with a faculty member to design a recovery program.
Truckee Meadows Community College
Truckee Meadows Community College provides information regarding selected substance use disorders, campus policies and disciplinary action, health risks, and links to campus and outside resources.
Clark County School District
Clark County’s public school district has created an outreach program to engage parents, increase awareness concerning substance use, and coordinate counseling and treatment programs with staff and the community.
LGBTQ+ Resources
LGBTQ+ Our Center
This inclusive space for the LGBTQ+ community offers age- and gender-specific peer support groups, links to gay-friendly Al-Anon, parenting and family-centered counseling, and hosts community events and outreach programs.
Equality Nevada
This advocacy organization promotes legislation to reduce inequalities and expand resources for the LGBTQ+ community. The group supports greater drug testing, an end to stigmatization and conversion therapy, and stronger health services.
The LGBTQIA+ Community Center
This community center provides education resources and support for the LGBTQ+ community. Specialized services are available for youths, seniors, and families. The organization maintains the Arlene Cooper Community Health Center, which offers low-cost preventive measures, harm reduction, substance testing, counseling and a pharmacy.
Veterans Programs
Nevada Department of Veterans Services
The state outlines the benefits and services available to military veterans and their families. Clients can find assistance for education and employment opportunities, enroll in healthcare programs, and seek specific treatment programs.
Nevada State Veterans Homes
The state maintains two residential facilities for military veterans and their spouses. Clients receive long- or short-term care, 24/7 supervision, rehabilitative services, mental and cognitive improvement strategies, and skilled nursing. Clients also receive facility amenities and access to social service programs.
Veterans Service Officers (VSO)
This state program assists military veterans regarding their benefits. VSO officers help veterans fill out applications, follow through with claims, and offer general guidance for veterans who need specialized services.
Indigenous & Tribal Programs
Nevada Urban Indians
This group offers drug screenings and evaluations, referrals to treatment programs, and engagement with traditional and spiritual healing practices for the Native American community.
Nevada Indian Commission
The state’s agency for American Indians coordinates social services, state programs and resources, and education outreach for Native American groups.
Inter-Tribal Council of Nevada
This organization offers the 28 tribes in Nevada access to family care resources, including education tools for children and childhood development, health care referrals to parents and seniors, and career coaching.
Drug Laws in Nevada
Administrative Code 458 for Substance Abuse
Chapter 458 establishes the standards and levels of care for substance use treatment programs. Facilities that wish to be licensed must abide by these standards.
Programs for Treatment for Those Who Solicit Prostitution
Employers or managers of employees involved in the sex trade are required to be aware of any history or current substance use disorder that may impact that employee. The regulations may also prohibit licensure of sex trade businesses if the employer is found to have a history of substance use that endangers employees and the public.
Syringe Services Program
This revised provision to Chapter 439 creates an exchange program for used/dirty syringes and hypodermic needles to reduce infection rates for HIV and hepatitis. The program must be in accordance with other laws regarding controlled substances.
Social Host Liability Law
Anyone who knowingly sells, furnishes, or provides alcohol to a minor may be liable for the actions of that minor when under the influence.
Naloxone Regulations
These regulations authorize licensed pharmacists to provide naloxone to individuals at-risk from an opioid overdose or a family member seeking naloxone on their behalf. First responders are authorized to administer naloxone to incapacitated individuals.
Good Samaritan Law
Chapter 453C.150 specifies that any person who, in good faith, seeks aid for an individual experiencing an opioid overdose cannot be prosecuted for possessing controlled substances.
Sources
- National Survey on Drug Use and Health: Model-Based Estimated Totals (in Thousands) (50 States and the District of Columbia). (n.d.). Report.
- Addressing Excessive Alcohol Use: State Fact Sheets. (2023, February 24). Www.cdc.gov.
- Alcohol Abuse Statistics [2023]: National + State Data. (n.d.). NCDAS.
- CDC. (2020, May 19). Nevada. Www.cdc.gov.