CLAREMONT, N.H. (WCAX) – While this year’s data is not yet complete, it appears New Hampshire is making significant strides when it comes to reducing drug-related deaths.
According to the chief medical examiner’s office in New Hampshire, hundreds of people died from drug overdoses in 2024. That’s the bad news. The good news is those numbers are showing a promising sign.
“It’s been a tragedy these last few years to see so many people falling to this disease,” said Dan Wargo of TLC Family Resource.
Like in many other states, it has been widely reported that drug addiction in New Hampshire is a problem. But according to the latest data, fatal overdoses are going down. While 33 cases are still pending, 228 people died from drugs so far this year. That’s a 10-year low for a state that has averaged more than 400 drug-related deaths over the past several years.
Places like the TLC Family Resource Center are likely making an impact. With offices in Claremont and Lebanon, the organization is now focusing on more case management and help navigating the recovery services they offer.
“The quicker that we can give people access to the help and support that they need, the quicker that we can respond, the more likely we can get them right when they are ready,” Wargo said.
Three years ago, paramedics in Lebanon responded to nearly 60 drug-related medical calls. This year to date, there have been only 10.
“I think a lot of that is attributed to public Narcan. Being accessible to the public,” Lebanon Fire Chief Jim Wheatley said.
There are 10 sites across Lebanon where the overdose reversal drug is offered. It’s one more tool to combat a crisis plaguing cities and towns across the region.
“Anytime we can do any sort of community risk reduction, reduce risk to citizens, reduce risk to our responders and those calls we are responding to, it’s a great sign for the community,” Wheatley said.
Those on the front lines of the problem say more work needs to be done. That includes increasing outreach and continuing to break down the stigma associated with addiction.