New survey data shows two out of three Hoosiers know someone battling addiction– that’s 63% of all Indiana residents.
The survey was commission by Indiana University’s Responding to the Addictions Crisis Grand Challenge initiative.
One-quarter of those surveyed report having a friend with an opioid addiction, while nearly one in five say that person is a family member.
Other key findings include:
- Widespread awareness of opioid crisis: At least nine of every 10 residents surveyed, or 94 percent, are either somewhat or very aware that an opioid crisis is unfolding in the state. More than three-quarters, 79 percent, said, “We are not doing enough as a nation to solve the opioid epidemic.”
- Sympathy for those facing addiction: More than 70 percent of those surveyed are either very or somewhat sympathetic to those who suffer from a substance addiction, and 82 percent of respondents agreed with the statement that “No one wants to be an addict.”
- Opioid addiction is top concern: Half of Indiana residents said opioids are the substance having the most negative impact on the state of Indiana, while over one-quarter, 28 percent, said that amphetamines are the most pressing concern.
- Medical professionals are central to addiction response: Sixty-four percent of respondents believe that doctors and medical professionals are critical to addressing the opioid crisis; 48 percent cite friends and family; 47 percent, elected government officials; and 42 percent, law enforcement.
- Support for naloxone use: At least three in four respondents, 77 percent, agree that first responders — firefighters, police and emergency management services workers — in Indiana should be equipped with naloxone to treat an opioid overdose.
- Support for needle exchange programs:More than half of respondents, 54 percent, also indicated support for syringe/needle exchange programs, a harm-reduction technique.
