Even though fewer teens today are using substances, opioid-related deaths have tripled in Washington. Why? Fentanyl.
Fake prescription pills and powder drugs that contain fentanyl are flooding the market, making it impossible to know what’s in the substances you may encounter.
With drugs being sold on social media, they’re easier to get than ever—and even more dangerous.
Fentanyl is an opioid that’s 50 to 100 times stronger than heroin. While fentanyl can be used safely in specific medical circumstances under the care of doctors or when prescribed by doctors, illegal fentanyl is different.
It’s often smuggled into the U.S., where it may be mixed with other drugs to make them stronger, or pressed into pills to look like real prescription medications like OxyContin, Percocet, Adderall, Xanax, and Vicodin.
Since these fake pills don’t have quality control, they can have unpredictable amounts of fentanyl, which is invisible, odorless, and tasteless. That means one pill might not harm you, but the next could have a dose that could cause you harm.
If someone has taken drugs and has the following symptoms, they could be experiencing an overdose.
When an opioid overdose happens, you can use naloxone (also known as Narcan®) to help save the person’s life. Naloxone, which usually comes as a nasal spray, can quickly reverse an opioid overdose. It’s easy to carry and use.
Naloxone only works for overdoses caused by opioids like fentanyl, heroin, and oxycodone. It’s completely safe—even if the person isn’t using opioids, it won’t cause any harm. If you think someone is overdosing, it’s always better to use it. It could help save their life while you wait for medical help to arrive.
Get offered something you don’t want? Here are a few easy ways to turn it down.
“Nah I’m good.” You don't even need to explain.
“Do you want to go get some food?”
“No thanks. Hey, did you see that TikTok with the hamster skateboarding?”
“I’m not really feeling it. Too many people are getting hurt with that stuff.”
“Can’t tonight, I’ve got an early game tomorrow.”
It’s cool to just leave. No comment needed.
If you or someone you know is struggling, these judgment-free resources are here to help.
24/7 hotline for texting, calling or chatting. Connect with a trained counselor who’s ready to listen, even if you’re not sure how to express what you're going through.
Confidential peer support for teens, by teens, for bullying, substance use, stress, relationships, depression, and more.
Anonymous, 24/7 support for those facing substance use or mental health challenges. Connect with trained staff for emotional support and local resources.
Confidential, anonymous resource for those seeking treatment for mental and substance use disorders.
24/7 crisis support for LGBTQIA2S+ youth, offering a hotline, counseling, and online resources for suicide prevention and other crises.
