The National Records of Scotland (NRS) has published its annual statistics on drug-related deaths in Scotland for 2025. The deeply worrying figures show the number of deaths increased by 11% in 2025 compared with the previous year.
The NRS recorded 1,133 drug use deaths in 2025, 116 more than in 2024. The increase was driven by a 19% rise in deaths among males. The number of female deaths fell by 5%, and they were at their lowest level since 2017.
While the number of drug use deaths remains below the peak recorded in 2020, 2025 marks the sixth-highest annual total on record. The average age of death was 46.
Unfortunately, significant inequalities persist. The rate of drug use deaths in Scotland's most deprived areas was 15 times higher than in the least deprived areas.
Dr Maria Casserly, Chair of the Addictions Faculty at the Royal College of Psychiatrists in Scotland, said:
“These latest figures, which show a sharp rise in drug-related fatalities across Scotland, are deeply concerning. Scotland continues to have the highest rate of drug-related deaths in Europe, and these figures underline the urgent need for a coordinated, public health approach that’s centred on harm reduction, treatment and long-term support. Every death is a tragedy that leaves a lasting mark on grieving families, affected communities and the frontline staff who work tirelessly to support people experiencing drug-related problems.
“People struggling with drug dependence must be able to access timely, effective treatment and high-quality support when they need it, with consistent, person-centred care for as long as needed. Achieving this will require sustained investment in accessible, properly funded services, with harm reduction at their core, that are equipped to meet growing demands.
“Addressing this crisis demands a coordinated approach. The Scottish Government must prioritise efforts to reduce drug-related harm and improve access to addiction services across health and social care and the third sector. Expanding access to harm reduction, evidence-based treatment and sustained support will ensure that more people receive the help they need to recover and rebuild their lives.
“The College’s recent report, ‘Mental Health at the Fault Line’, highlighted serious concerns about Scotland’s integrated health and social care system. It identified a complex and poorly coordinated system that’s falling short of delivering the effective, joined-up care it was designed to provide. The report also highlighted the disproportionate impact this is having on secondary care and specialist mental health services.
“The Scottish Government’s planned health and social care reforms could offer a significant opportunity to address longstanding structural challenges affecting our mental health services. The clinical insights and expertise of psychiatrists and other frontline professionals will be critical in shaping the reforms so that they deliver meaningful and lasting improvements for patients, communities and the wider health system.”
For further information, please contact:
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