Overdose Deaths Drop in South Carolina for First Time in a Decade

COLUMBIA, S.C. — For the first time in ten years, South Carolina has recorded a decline in overdose deaths, a shift that state health officials are calling a hopeful milestone in the ongoing opioid crisis.

According to state data, just over 2,100 overdose deaths were recorded in 2023, reflecting a 6% decrease from the previous year.

Statewide Progress Mirrors National Trend

Sara Goldsby, Director of the South Carolina Office of Substance Use Services, said the drop is part of a larger trend.

“They’re down not only in South Carolina but across the nation right now, which is a big relief,” Goldsby said.

The decline follows years of steady increases driven by opioids, particularly fentanyl. Officials say expanded access to treatment and recovery programs is helping change the trajectory.

Prevention Tools Making an Impact

Health experts highlighted several initiatives behind the decline, including:

• Peer recovery services, which provide personal connections to help people enter treatment.
• Wider distribution of naloxone, a medication that can reverse opioid overdoses.
• Increased availability of fentanyl testing strips, allowing users to identify the presence of the dangerous synthetic opioid.

“With peer recovery services, that personal connection to get someone into treatment has been huge,” said Julia Horan, Director of the Substance Use Prevention Unit at the Department of Public Health.

Challenges Remain

Despite progress, fentanyl remains the leading driver of overdose deaths, with even trace amounts proving fatal. Experts caution that stigma continues to be a barrier to seeking help.

Goldsby emphasized that addiction should be recognized as a disease, and that treatment must be accessible in all healthcare settings.

Awareness Efforts Ongoing

The decline comes ahead of International Overdose Awareness Day, which is observed this Sunday. The day serves as a reminder for communities to support prevention, expand access to naloxone, and continue addressing substance use disorder with urgency.

Officials encourage residents to seek available resources, including free naloxone and fentanyl test kits provided through the state’s public health system.

Do you think South Carolina is doing enough to reduce overdose deaths, or are stronger measures needed? Share your thoughts at SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.