The opioid crisis is a serious health concern in the United States and affects millions of households every year. According to the CDC.gov, in 2021 alone, over 80,000 people died from opioid overdoses, which was the highest number of drug overdose deaths recorded in a single year. Opioids include prescription painkillers like oxycodone and illegal substances like heroin and fentanyl. Understanding the signs of opioid addiction is important, especially among young people who may potentially identify them in friends or family members.
Some of the typical behaviors involved in opioid abuse include a lot of drowsiness, confusion, sluggish breathing, and sudden mood changes. Teens might also observe people who are misusing opioids isolate themselves, lose interest in things they used to enjoy, or their grades begin to suffer. Another sign is if someone constantly requests money or loses track of time.
They may also start stealing and hanging out with new people, who might be abusing substances too. Having knowledge of these warning signs is beneficial so teens can assist their friends in time, preventing the addiction from getting worse.
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), early detection of such behavior can be lifesaving as the abuse of opioids often leads to addiction and even overdose if not addressed.
If an adolescent suspects that a friend or loved one is using opioids, it’s imperative to approach the situation with care and sensitivity. Adolescents should encourage their friends to talk to a trusted adult, counselor, or a healthcare professional. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), treatment options such as counseling, medication-assisted treatment, and being supported by groups like family and friends can promote recovery from opioid addiction.
It is also important that teenagers know that they can call emergency services when there is a suspected overdose, and that medications like naloxone can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose if given immediately to the patient.
Abuse of opioids is a serious problem that still impacts thousands of people. Teenagers can help bring this epidemic under control and save lives by being familiar with the signs, being honest with family and friends, and encouraging the affected individuals to seek expert help immediately. Everyone needs to do their part in protecting their communities from the dangers of opioids.
This article was written as part of a program to educate youth and others about Alameda County’s opioid crisis, prevention and treatment options. The program is funded by the Alameda County Behavioral Health Department and the grant is administered by Three Valleys Community Foundation.
