Missouri substance abuse costs $8.5B annually, highlighting the need for improved access to services.

Substance abuse in Missouri costs the state $8.5B annually, according to the Missouri Department of Mental Health. This figure accounts for various factors, such as lost workdays due to substance-related illness and prevention & rehab resource costs. The data was presented to the Missouri Legislature's Substance Abuse Prevention and Treatment Task Force, emphasizing the urgent need for improving access to necessary services.