Author: Jade-Ann Rennie

Did you know that fentanyl is up to 100 times stronger than morphine?

In recent years, the use of fentanyl has become a major public health concern. The availability of fentanyl is a key factor in its rise among teenagers. It is a synthetic opioid that is highly potent and can even be lethal in small doses. It is often mixed with other substances or sold as counterfeit prescription drugs.

With fentanyl becoming a growing concern, let’s take a look at six factors contributing to the increased use of fentanyl in teenagers.

1. Availability

A key factor driving the use of fentanyl in teenagers is its easy accessibility. It is often sold as a cheaper alternative to other drugs, which makes it more appealing to teens who are looking to save money.

Fentanyl can be purchased on the street or even online. It is sold mixed with other drugs like heroin or cocaine, but can also be sold as a less expensive, more potent alternative.

Many teenagers are ingesting fentanyl without even knowing it when they use these other drugs.

2. Misconception About Safety

Many teenagers have a common misconception about the safety of fentanyl. They believe that because it is considered a prescription drug, it is safe to use. Some teens believe that because it is a synthetic opioid, it is safer than alternative drug options like heroin and cocaine.

However, fentanyl is highly potent and can cause respiratory depression, which can lead to death even in small amounts of use.

3. Lack of Education

A lack of education about the negative effects of fentanyl use is a contributing factor to its rise. Many teenagers are not fully educated on the true dangers of fentanyl and the potential for overdose. They may not fully understand the potency of the drug and the risks that are associated with its use, such as long-term health consequences and potential addiction.

It is important to educate teens about the various dangers they can face with fentanyl along with other opioids in circulation.

4. Substance Use

A growing problem in the teen community is substance use, which also includes opioid usage. Teens that use other drugs like alcohol, marijuana, or prescription painkillers may be more likely to experiment with the use of fentanyl.

The increasing availability of fentanyl and the likelihood of experimenting with more dangerous drugs contribute to this problem more.

5. Mental Health Issues

With mental health issues also on the rise, concerns such as depression, anxiety, or trauma can also lead to the rise of fentanyl use in teens. Some teens may turn to fentanyl as a coping mechanism or a way to self-medicate underlying mental health issues.

Unfortunately, the use of fentanyl can actually enhance these issues and lead to more significant mental health concerns.

6. Substance Use Disorder

Once a teenager begins using fentanyl, it can quickly turn into a substance use disorder, making it difficult to stop. Substance use can even result in an overdose.

Also, teens with a history of substance use disorder may be more likely to experiment with fentanyl or other strong drugs.

Helping Our Teens

We believe it is essential to address the root causes of the rise of fentanyl overdoses in teens and educate both teens and their families on the dangers of fentanyl use.

With the use of fentanyl on the rise, our team is dedicated to providing resources and supporting those who are struggling with substance use. We offer a variety of services and programs focused on helping teenagers with substance use.

Our team has a 24/7 Crisis Line to help if you need immediate assistance in regards to someone you know and the use of fentanyl!

If you are located in Montgomery County, Maryland, and are looking for substance use education for yourself, your teen, or someone you know, contact us today so we can help answer your questions!