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Addiction in Tennessee: Key Trends, Local Progress, and the Road Ahead

Sep 30, 2025 | Addiction Statistics

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At Total Recovery Medical Center, our mission is to provide compassionate, evidence-based care to those battling substance use disorders. Understanding the current landscape of addiction in Tennessee, and specifically in Knoxville, is crucial for effective treatment and community support. Below, we present the latest statistics and trends to shed light on the challenges and progress in our region.


View the 2025 CSMD Annual Report (PDF)

Statewide Overview: Tennessee’s Battle with Addiction

Overdose Deaths Decline in 2023

  • In 2023, Tennessee reported 3,616 drug overdose deaths, marking a 5.5% decrease from 3,826 deaths in 2022. 

Opioids Remain a Major Concern

  • Opioids were involved in 81% of overdose deaths in 2023.
  • Fentanyl was implicated in 75% of all overdose deaths, with 2,720 fatalities, a slight 2.8% decrease from the previous year.
  • Deaths involving prescription pain relievers declined to 11.7% of overdose deaths in 2023, down from 19.6% in 2020.

Rise in Stimulant-Related Deaths

  • From 2019 to 2023, deaths involving stimulants (primarily methamphetamine) increased by 143%
  • In 2023, 42% of all overdose deaths involved stimulants.
  • Notably, 79% of stimulant-involved deaths also involved opioids, with fentanyl present in 96% of these cases.

Benzodiazepine Involvement

  • In 2023, 13% of opioid-related deaths also involved benzodiazepines, indicating a concerning trend of polydrug use

Knoxville and Knox County: Local Trends

Significant Decrease in Overdose Deaths

  • In 2024, Knox County reported 334 overdose deaths, a 36% decrease from 2023. (source)
    • This marks the first time since 2019 that the county has seen fewer than 300 suspected overdose deaths. (source)

Contributing Factors to the Decline

  • Increased distribution of Naloxone (Narcan) by organizations like the Metro Drug Coalition has played a significant role in reducing fatalities.
  • Enhanced community outreach and education efforts have also contributed to the decline in overdose deaths.

Ongoing Challenges

  • Despite the decrease in deaths, fentanyl and synthetic opioids remain the most frequently identified substances in drug-related fatalities. 
  • The rise in stimulant use, often in combination with opioids, continues to pose a significant threat.

Implications for Treatment and Recovery

The data underscores the importance of comprehensive treatment approaches that address:

  • Polydrug Use: Treatments must consider the complexities of individuals using multiple substances simultaneously.
  • Harm Reduction: Continued distribution of Naloxone and education on its use are vital.
  • Community Engagement: Collaborative efforts between healthcare providers, community organizations, and law enforcement are essential for sustained progress.

Seeking Help

If you or someone you know is struggling with substance use, Total Recovery Medical Center in Knoxville is here to help. Our dedicated team offers personalized treatment plans to support recovery and well-being. Contact us today for more information.