On April 28, 2025, state agencies in Delaware confirmed a significant reduction in drug overdose deaths for the calendar year 2024. The Office of the Lieutenant Governor of Delaware, Delaware Department of Health and Social Services (DHSS), the Delaware Department of Safety and Homeland Security (DSHS), and the Delaware Department of Justice (DOJ) reported that the number of drug deaths decreased by nearly 36%, with a total of 338 confirmed deaths in 2024, compared to 527 in 2023 and 537 in 2022.
Governor Matt Meyer highlighted the importance of partnerships and persistence in addressing the opioid crisis. “Every life saved is a family kept whole, and this progress shows what’s possible when we lead with urgency, compassion, and real investment," Meyer stated. He further expressed pride in the ongoing efforts across the state aimed at creating a healthier environment.
This downward trend in drug deaths aligns with national statistics. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reported a 26.5% national decrease in drug overdose deaths over the 12 months from November 2023 to November 2024. In the same period, neighboring states also saw similar declines: New Jersey decreased by 32%, Pennsylvania by 31%, Maryland by 29%, Virginia by 42%, Washington, D.C. by 33%, and New York by 32%.
Joanna Champney, Director of the DHSS Division of Substance Abuse and Mental Health, noted, “The drop in drug deaths in Delaware, the region, and in most states nationally is encouraging, but we need people to recognize the danger of the filler substances in street drugs." Champney mentioned ongoing concerns about harmful substances like medetomidine.
Factors contributing to Delaware's reduction in drug deaths include the distribution of naloxone in high-risk areas, improved access to addiction treatment, and public health campaigns on opioid dangers. Organizations have been expanding efforts to screen for opiate use disorder and access to medications for treatment has increased.
Since being declared a Public Health Emergency in 2017, overdoses remain a leading cause of death for Americans aged 18-44. State efforts include the Prescription Opioid Settlement Distribution Commission (POSDC), which plans to award another $13 million in grants to support addiction response initiatives, co-chaired by Champney and Attorney General Kathleen Jennings.
Jennings remarked on the progress, saying, “Every overdose is one too many, and we still have a long road ahead of us — but we are also seeing real progress." She praised community groups and state leaders for their dedication and the continued effort to hold pharmaceutical companies accountable.
Lt. Governor Kyle Evans Gay, Chair of Delaware’s Behavioral Health Consortium, emphasized the state's commitment to tackling the opioid crisis. "Delaware has taken strong, intentional steps," Gay mentioned, adding the importance of prevention and recovery efforts to eventually overcome this crisis.
More information about accessing addiction treatment services is available at https://www.helpisherede.com.