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Abuse of opioids is a public health crisis that’s rising in the United States. More than 80,000 people have died from opioid overdoses in 2021, and most of those deaths can be traced back to fentanyl and other synthetic opioids, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). While opioid abuse is mostly found in adults, teens are continuously being put in harm’s way due to prescription misuse, experimentation, or taking counterfeit pills. Knowing the warning signs of opioid misuse, along with understanding how to respond, can save lives.
Signs of opioid misuse
Opioids, including oxycodone, hydrocodone, fentanyl, and heroin, impact the brain and body in ways that lead to addiction and overdose. Warning signs include:
- Behavioral: Withdrawal from peers/activities, academic decline, secrecy, or changes in eating/sleep patterns.
- Emotional and psychological: Mood swings, anxiety, depression, or irritability.
- Physical: Drowsiness, loss of weight, pinpoint pupils, slow breathing, and slurred speech.
- Drug-related: Unexplained financial problems, missing prescription medication pills, or miscellaneous items such as pill bottles without labels, foil, or needles.
The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) emphasizes that the different behaviors aren’t necessarily evidence of drug use, but a combination of several red flags together can show misuse.
What teens can do if they suspect opioid misuse
It can definitely be scary to suspect whether a friend or loved one is misusing opioids, but there are simple and effective steps to take:
- Start gently and with compassion. Approach the person in a supportive, relaxed manner. Focus on observations and express concern. A statement like, “I’ve noticed you seem tired lately. Are you okay?” allows for open communication and ensures that there isn’t judgment.
- Encourage professional assistance. Suggest your friend or loved one talk with a trusted adult, such as a parent, school counselor, teacher, or coach. Teenagers typically cannot handle addiction alone, at least not safely. Professional guidance is crucial.
- Learn emergency procedures. Overdoses can be frightening to witness. If someone displays signs, like slow or stopped breathing, unconsciousness, or blue lips, call 911 immediately. The CDC suggests Narcan, which is a life-saving medication that can counteract opioid overdoses. This is increasingly available in schools and public centers.
- Protect yourself. Never try to use drugs with a friend “to help” or try to handle their withdrawal. The best, most helpful, action is to lead them toward safe, professional resources.
- Use available resources. There are many organizations like the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) that have a confidential, free helpline. They use 1-800-662-HELP, and they have 24/7 support for families and individuals who are having problems with substance abuse.
Opioid addiction is an issue that requires awareness and intervention at any age. For teens, the most important role is catching warning signs early, using compassion to talk to friends, and helping them get to trusted adults and professionals who can provide help. Knowledge and support can help youth play a key role in preventing tragedies and building recovery.
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.
