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Washington Drug Statistics and Resources

Only 10% of Washington residents who are addicted to substances receive the treatment they need. This is not because treatment isn’t available. Throughout The Evergreen State, there are 514 substance abuse clinics. Residents also have access to myriad free substance abuse resources in Washington. If you or someone you know needs addiction resources in Washington, use the links below to access key support services for recovery.

Drug Statistics in Washington

Nearly 45,000 individuals receive drug rehab treatment in Washington each year.1 A look at recent statistics reveals trends in treatment needs, addiction, and health risks related to substance abuse in Washington.

2,001 Opioid Deaths
In 2022, there were 2,001 opioid overdose deaths in Washington.
3,184 Alcohol Deaths
An average of 3,184 annual deaths in Washington are due to excessive alcohol use.
2/10
2 out of 10 of Washington adults (17.4%) report binge drinking or heavy drinking, defined as 4 or more drinks in one session.
90% of the opioid overdose deaths in Washington during 2022 were caused by fentanyl.
The drug-related crime rate in Washington is 2.8 per 1,000 residents per year.

Addiction Nonprofits in Washington

Stop Overdose Naloxone Finder

This site offers a map of locations that provide free naloxone. Washington residents can also place orders for mail-order naloxone kits.

Washington 211

This free, confidential service is available 24/7. Residents can dial 211 from anywhere in Washington and connect with a specialist who will provide a list of available resources in the area.

Washington Recovery Helpline

Washington residents can receive free, confidential help for substance abuse, gambling, and mental health challenges. Support is available 24/7. Professionally-trained staff help callers connect with local resources and community services. 866-789-1511

Washington State Department of Health Drug User Health

This division of the health department offers programs to address infectious disease among Washington residents who use drugs. By improving access to care, programs aim to improve the quality of life and health of those who use drugs.

Harm Reduction Programs

King County Needle Exchange

This Seattle-based program provides new syringes in exchanged for used syringes. Additional services include testing for HIV, TB, hepatitis, and other infections; assistance with obtaining treatment; and education about drug use.

Next Distro Washington

This site offers access to mail-order naloxone and a list of locations where Washington residents can obtain naloxone. Visitors to the site can also find crisis support and other resources for recovery.

The People’s Harm Reduction Alliance (PHRA)

PHRA distributes harm-reduction supplies, including new syringes, sterile injection equipment, naloxone, and wound-care supplies. The organization operates five programs in western Washington and offers a statewide mail-order naloxone service.

Washington State Department of Health Syringe Service Programs

These community-based health programs offer services to Washington residents who use syringes. Services include safe syringe disposal, access to treatment and support, and sterile injecting supplies.

Government Grants & Resources

Apple Health

Washington’s Health Care Authority (HCA) offers funding for substance use treatment for Washington residents who are enrolled in Apple Health (Medicaid). The HCA can help residents enroll in Apple Health to get free or low-cost services.

Office of the Insurance Commissioner

This Washington state department oversees insurance and protects consumers. Washington residents can contact this office with questions about insurance and healthcare cost concerns. The site offers a list of insurance plans and programs for those who need financial assistance.

HCA Recovery Residences

The Washington Health Care Authority offers a Recovery Residence Program. Recovery residences are for Washingtonians who are in substance use disorder recovery. The site offers access to a searchable directory of recovery homes in the state.

College Addiction Resources

Eastern Washington University Eagles for Recovery

Students can access weekly support meetings, sober events, and assistance with navigating recovery. This program is for all EWU students who are in recovery or thinking about recovery, as well as those who want to support others in recovery.

Seattle University Wellness and Health

This department offers education and support regarding alcohol and drug use. Students can access support groups, 12 Step meetings, Alcohol eCHECKUP TO GO, Cannabis eCHECKUP TO GO, substance abuse screenings, and a helpline.

University of Washington LiveWell

The goal of this department is to help students make informed decisions about their well-being. Staff and peer educators provide advocacy, prevention and health promotion. Students can access support, education, self-assessment tools, and recovery resources.

Washington State University Cougs for Recovery

Students who are in recovery or are contemplating recovery can access peer support and harm reduction services. The program offers engaging community and support.

Western Washington University Counseling and Wellness Center

This university wellness center offers confidential support for students who have alcohol and drug use concerns. Staff can offer free services and coordinate enrollment in an evidence-based program.

LGBTQ+ Resources

ACLU of Washington

The ACLU defends the civil liberties of LGBTQ persons. The organization focuses on issues that impact the rights and privacy of Washingtonians.

Washington State LGBTQ Commission

This commission’s goal is to identify the needs of LGBTQ persons and advocate for policies and programs that meet them. Visitors to the site can access resources statewide and by county.

PFLAG

PFLAG is dedicated to supporting and advocating for LGBTQ persons. The following local Washington chapters offer resources and links to community programs:
Bellevue/Eastside
Bellingham/Whatcom County
Benton/Franklin
Clarkston
Everett
Lower Columbia
Olympia
Seattle
Skagit
Spokane
Tacoma
Wenatchee/Wenatchee Valley
Whidbey Island

Veterans Programs

Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs

Veterans Alcohol and Drug Dependence Rehabilitation Program

This program provides rehabilitation services to eligible Veterans who are dependent on alcohol or drugs. Treatment can include detox, rehab, and psychiatric services. Programs can be found in local Washington VA clinics, searchable on this site.

Veterans Crisis Line

Washington Veterans who are experiencing addiction crises can call 988 then press 1 to receive immediate support. This service is available 24/7/365.

Indigenous & Tribal Programs

For Our Lives/Washington Tribal Opioid Solutions

This organization works to inform and educate tribal communities about opioid use disorder treatment, overdose response, and opioid misuse prevention.

Native Resource Hub

This hub is a centralized information center and phone line for all Native people in Washington. Native Resource Hub staff help Native people find resources for mental health needs, addiction, legal issues, and other life challenges.

Drug Laws in Washington

Regulations governing substance use and misuse in Washington include the following laws:

Drug Courts

First offenders charged with non-violent substance-related crimes that do not involve DUI may be eligible to participate in court-ordered rehab in lieu of jail time.

Good Samaritan Law

This law protects Washington residents from prosecution for minor drug-related charges when they call 911 for assistance during a drug overdose.

Drug Paraphernalia

In Washington state, drug paraphernalia is illegal. Possession of items such as cocaine spoons, syringes, scales, and mixing devices is prosecuted as a misdemeanor and punishable by up to 90 days in jail and a $1,000 fine.

Marijuana Laws

Marijuana is legal for recreational and medical use in Washington. Residents aged 21 years and older can possess up to one ounce of cannabis, 16 ounces of marijuana-infused solid product, or 72 ounces in liquid form.

Sources

Where do calls go?

Calls to any general helpline will be answered or returned by one of the treatment providers listed, each of which is a paid advertiser: Rehab Media Group, Recovery Helpline, Alli Addiction Services.

By calling the helpline you agree to the terms of use. We do not receive any commission or fee that is dependent upon which treatment provider a caller chooses. There is no obligation to enter treatment.