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Reviewed by Tennessee is a state located in the southeastern region of the United States. It is known for its rich musical heritage, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cities like Nashville and Memphis.
A significant challenge that shadows the state’s diverse culture and economy is the rise of substance abuse that has been trending up in the whole country. With a population of over 6.9 million, Tennessee faces growing concerns related to drug and alcohol addiction, particularly in rural areas where access to treatment can be limited.
In this article, we explore the current substance abuse situation in Tennessee, highlight critical statistics, discuss available treatment options, and enlist some of the best rehab centers in the state.
Table Of Contents:
Drug and Alcohol Abuse in Tennessee
Substance abuse in Tennessee is not the exception but the norm since it mirrors the national trends, with opioids, methamphetamines, and alcohol being the leading contributors to addiction and overdose deaths in the state.
The Tennessee Department of Health reported 1,268 opioid overdose deaths in 2017 and more than six million painkiller prescriptions in 2018, which clearly shows that the problem has been linked to legal prescriptions of these substances. However, the illegal sale and distribution of synthetic opioids like fentanyl exacerbate the crisis.
The prevalence of opioid use disorder (OUD) has led to an increase in hospitalizations and emergency room visits, which is clear when put in numbers, and in 2022, there were 7,549 discharges for opioid overdose, excluding heroin.
Methamphetamine use also remains a critical issue, particularly in rural areas where access to treatment facilities is more limited.
Alcohol abuse persists as a major problem, contributing to a substantial portion of substance use disorder (SUD) cases in the state.
Here is a summary of hospital discharges by type of drug in 2022:
| Drug Type | Outpatient Visits | Inpatient Stays |
|---|---|---|
| All Drugs | 19,738 (75.3%) | 6,473 (24.7%) |
| Opioids (Excl. Heroin) | 6,085 (80.6%) | 1,464 (19.4%) |
| Heroin | 2,328 | 341 |
| Fentanyl | 1,044 | 278 |
| Benzodiazepines | 780 | 658 |
| Cocaine | 319 | 573 |
| Amphetamines | ~50% distribution | ~50% distribution |
Rehab Treatment Centers in Tennessee
Like other states, Tennessee has gotten ready to face the challenging reality of substance abuse. By 2020, it was home to more than 250 rehab centers that offer a wide variety of treatment options for individuals struggling with substance abuse.
Like other places, facilities in Tennessee are focused on offering comprehensive and personalized care that includes different levels of care, such as inpatient and outpatient programs, medical detox, dual diagnosis treatment, and specialized care for different populations.
Inpatient Rehab in Tennessee
As of 2020, Tennessee had approximately 120 inpatient rehab centers. These facilities provide a structured environment where individuals can receive intensive treatment away from the triggers and stressors of daily life and with constant monitoring.
For inpatient care, the average length of stay ranges from 30 to 90 days, and the length of the stay depends on the severity of the addiction and the individual’s needs.
Outpatient Rehab in Tennessee
Outpatient rehab is a flexible treatment option that allows individuals to receive care while maintaining their daily responsibilities.
Tennessee has over 200 outpatient facilities offering various levels of care, from regular outpatient programs to more intensive options such as intensive outpatient programs (IOP) and partial hospitalization programs (PHP).
Alcohol Rehab in Tennessee
Alcohol addiction is a significant concern in Tennessee, with many facilities dedicated to treating alcohol use disorder (AUD).
In 2020, approximately 150 facilities in Tennessee offered specialized services for alcohol addiction. These centers provide essential services, including detoxification, counseling, and long-term recovery strategies tailored to the complexities of alcohol dependence.
Mental Health and Co-occurring Disorders
Addressing co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders is a crucial aspect of Tennessee’s treatment policies. In 2020, about 55% of the state’s treatment facilities were equipped to provide dual diagnosis treatment, ensuring that individuals receive integrated care for both mental health and substance use issues. This approach is vital for achieving long-term recovery, as untreated mental health conditions can significantly hinder the recovery process.
| Type of Care | Number of Facilities | Offer Alcohol Treatment | Offer Dual Diagnosis |
|---|---|---|---|
| Outpatient | 283 | 174 | 242 |
| Residential (Non-Hospital) | 76 | 63 | 50 |
| Hospital Inpatient | 26 | 15 | 19 |
| Total | 311 | 242 | 311 |
Costs of Rehab in Tennessee
The cost of rehab in Tennessee varies depending on the type of treatment and the level of care provided. Below is an estimate of typical costs:
| Type of Rehab | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Outpatient Rehab (30-day program) | $1,500 to $12,000 |
| Inpatient Rehab (30-day program) | $6,000 to $25,000 |
| Inpatient Rehab (60-90 days) | $12,000 to $60,000 |
| Detoxification (7-day program) | $1,000 to $4,000 |
| Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) | $500 to $1,200 per month |
| Luxury Rehab | $30,000 to $100,000 |
Insurance and Payment Options
Many rehab facilities in Tennessee accept various forms of insurance, including private health insurance, Medicaid, and Medicare. Additionally, many centers offer sliding fee scales or provide services at no cost for those who qualify based on financial need.
| Insurance Provider | Coverage Details |
|---|---|
| TennCare (Medicaid) | This is Tennessee’s Medicaid program, which covers various addiction treatment services, including MAT and rehab. |
| Medicare | This is a federal program for those 65+ or with certain disabilities, covering outpatient and inpatient rehab. |
| Blue Cross Blue Shield of Tennessee | Private insurance covers a wide range of substance abuse treatments, including inpatient and outpatient rehab. |
| Cigna | Private insurance offers coverage for addiction treatment services, often including detox, rehab, and MAT. |
| Aetna | Private insurance that provides coverage for substance abuse treatment, including inpatient and outpatient services. |
| UnitedHealthcare | Private insurance covers a variety of addiction treatment services, depending on the specific plan. |
| Humana | Private insurance that offers coverage for substance abuse treatment services, including rehab and counseling. |
Best Rehab Centers in Tennessee
Here is a list of some of the top-rated rehab centers in Tennessee:
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Treatment Center
JourneyPure – Norris, Tennessee
17 Ridgeway Road, Norris, TN
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Treatment Center
Embark at The Forge – Benton, Tennessee
5842 TN-30, Benton, TN
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Experiential and Holistic Rehab
The Ranch Tennessee: Experiential and Holistic Rehab Center
6275 Pinewood Rd, Nunnelly, TN
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Treatment Center
Mending Hearts, Nashville, Tennessee
PO Box 280236, Nashville, TN
These centers are known for providing comprehensive treatment programs, having experienced staff, and maintaining a strong commitment to helping individuals achieve long-term recovery.
Rehab in Tennessee – Bottom Line
Tennessee offers a wide range of treatment options for individuals struggling with substance and alcohol abuse, from inpatient and outpatient programs to specialized care for co-occurring disorders or different populations; the options are there to choose from.
The state continues to combat the significant challenges related to substance abuse, and the availability of high-quality treatment facilities provides hope for those seeking to overcome addiction.
Other Frequently Asked Questions
Are there state-funded or low-cost rehab options in Tennessee?
Yes, Tennessee has state-funded rehab centers and low-cost options for individuals who may not have insurance or the financial means to pay for private treatment. These can be accessed through local community health centers and state programs.
Do teenagers in Tennessee abuse drugs?
Substance abuse among teens in the state is a significant concern, with alcohol, marijuana, and prescription drugs being the most commonly abused substances.
What is the drug that causes more deaths after opioids in Tennessee?
After opioids, methamphetamine is the drug that causes the most deaths in Tennessee. Methamphetamine use has been a significant issue in the state, contributing to a substantial number of overdose deaths and hospitalizations. This drug, often combined with opioids, exacerbates the risk of fatal outcomes, making it the second most deadly substance in Tennessee after opioids.
What is TennCare?
Medicaid is a state and federally-funded program that provides health coverage to low-income individuals and families, including services for substance use disorders. In Tennessee, Medicaid is managed through TennCare, which covers a wide range of treatments, including inpatient, outpatient, and medication-assisted treatment.
Are there rehab centers that focus on specific substances like opioids or alcohol?
Yes, some rehab centers in Tennessee specialize in treating specific types of substance use disorders, such as opioid addiction or alcohol dependence. These centers often provide tailored treatment plans that address the unique challenges associated with each type of addiction.
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Page Sources
- Tennessee Department of Tourism: Welcome to Tennessee
- Census: Tennessee
- Tennessee Department of Health: Tennessee Faces of Opioids
- Tennessee Department of Health: 2022 Drug Overdose Hospital Discharges in Tennessee
- Alcohol Abuse Statistics [2023]: National + State Data - NCDAS. (2024, May 2). NCDAS. https://drugabusestatistics.org/alcohol-abuse-statistics/
- National Survey of Substance Abuse Treatment Services. (2021, July 14). https://www.samhsa.gov/data/data-we-collect/n-ssats-national-survey-substance-abuse-treatment-services
- NCDAS: Average Cost of Drug Rehab