The Warning Signs of Fentanyl Abuse in Teens
Fentanyl use among teens is a rising concern that demands urgent attention. As a parent or loved one, you must be aware of the warning signs of fentanyl abuse to protect your young ones from this silent killer.
It’s crucial to recognize signs of fentanyl use so you can intervene early and help your teen get the help they need. Do this before this dangerous drug leads to big problems. Opioid abuse, including fentanyl, is a big problem. So, you must stay watchful and act to protect your children from its many dangers.
Teenage Addiction Treatment in San Diego
What is Fentanyl, and Why Is It So Dangerous?
Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid that is up to 100 times more powerful than morphine and 50 times more potent than heroin. What began as a strong medication for cancer patients’ pain relief escalated into a public health crisis when people started misusing it.
Its high potency and easy accessibility through the black market make it an attractive option for drug dealers to add to other drugs to increase their supply and profits. The thing is, only a very small amount can lead to accidental overdose or even be fatal. Fentanyl is also difficult to detect. Your teen could unknowingly ingest it when taking fake pills or other illicit substances.
Drug dealers only care about making money. They don’t think about how adding fentanyl to manufactured drugs could take the life of a teenager. Young people may not be aware of the dangers of fentanyl and give in to the curiosity and allure of experimenting with substances. This has led to a surge in fentanyl-related overdoses.
But if you are diligent about spotting the warning signs of fentanyl abuse in your teen, you can prevent tragedy.
Warning Signs of Fentanyl Abuse in Teenagers
Symptoms of fentanyl use in teens can manifest physically, behaviorally, and psychologically. That’s why paying attention to changes in your teen’s demeanor and behavior is vital.
The most obvious sign of fentanyl use in teens is finding small, unmarked pills or powders in your teen’s possession. In all likelihood, your teen will do what they can to hide substances from you, but it’s best to understand what to look for.
Behavioral Signs of Fentanyl Abuse in Teenagers
Because fentanyl is a synthetic opioid, its “job” is to make the user feel relaxed, pain-free, and euphoric. (Which is why it’s so easy to get addicted.) It may be tricky to notice behavioral changes in your teen because teenagers can be somewhat unpredictable. However, some of the warning signs of fentanyl use include:
- changes in sleeping patterns
- excessive drowsiness
- insomnia
- sudden mood swings
- becoming withdrawn
- sudden need for money
- changes in academic performance
- engaging in risky behaviors
Teens using illicit substances that may be laced with fentanyl may also change their social circles. They may try to distance themselves from their usual peer groups and spend more time with others who also use drugs.
Physical Signs of Fentanyl Abuse in Teenagers
Teens don’t try opioids, whether laced with fentanyl or not, to become addicted. The teenage years are filled with physical, emotional, and societal changes where they begin to test the waters of their independence. Curiosity, peer pressure, and a desire to fit in may lead to trying drugs containing fentanyl.
And if they do, the physical signs are the ones you’re most likely to notice. Teenagers abusing fentanyl may exhibit the following physical signs:
- respiratory depression
- pinpoint pupils
- nausea
- vomiting
- constipation
- lack of coordination
- slurred speech
It’s all quite terrifying. But even worse, the negative physical signs don’t always stop there. Fentanyl use in teens could also lead to seizures, coma, or even death.
Psychological Signs of Fentanyl Abuse in Teenagers
Fentanyl use in teens can also have significant psychological impacts on teenagers, which can be equally concerning and challenging to detect. One of the primary psychological indicators of fentanyl abuse is the development of a strong dependence or addiction to the drug.
Additional psychological signs of fentanyl use include the following:
- intense cravings
- withdrawal symptoms if unable to use
- mood changes
- increased anxiety
- depression
- irritability
- decreased interest in activities once enjoyed
In some cases, fentanyl abuse can also cause co-occurring mental health conditions. These include anxiety or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). These underlying issues can further complicate the addiction and make it more difficult for them to seek the help they need.
How To Protect Your Teens From Fentanyl Abuse
The best way to ensure your teen doesn’t fall prey to the dangers of fentanyl is to avoid it altogether. Of course, in reality, that may not always be possible. But as a parent or caregiver, it is crucial to educate yourself and your teen about the dangers and risks of fentanyl.
Open and honest communication is essential. Encourage your teen to feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and feelings. They should also share any concerns they have about substance abuse. Do your best to listen without judgment and offer support and helpful resources if they admit to trying illicit drugs.
As mentioned earlier, monitoring your teen’s behavior and social interactions can help identify potential warning signs of fentanyl abuse. It’s crucial to stay vigilant. Watch for changes in mood, friends, and grades. It’s important to talk to your child about the dangers of drug use and get them the help they need as soon as possible.
The Importance of Seeking Professional Help for Fentanyl Addiction
If your teen is using drugs containing fentanyl, they are putting their lives at risk. And because fentanyl addiction can be complex and challenging to overcome, it requires a comprehensive, evidence-based approach to treatment. At BOLD Health, our team of physician-led addiction experts takes a holistic, individualized treatment approach that ensures your teen will beat addiction.
Recovery from fentanyl addiction requires a combination of interventions, including behavioral therapy, medication management, and support. Seeking teenage addiction treatment as early as possible and providing your teen with the necessary support can increase their chance of achieving lasting recovery and reducing the risk of overdose or other devastating consequences.
Don’t Wait. Trust BOLD Health for Teenage Addiction Treatment in San Diego.
The bottom line is that fentanyl is dangerous. Fentanyl is deadly. And if you suspect your teen is using, getting them the help they need should be your number one priority. At BOLD Health, we’ll curate the ideal treatment plan that may include:
- detox
- individual therapy
- group therapy
- medication management
We’ll also ensure you and your teen feel supported throughout the entire treatment process. Our teen and child psychiatrists in San Diego will patiently and compassionately help your teen through their addiction and other mental health challenges without ever judging them.
Your child’s health is our priority. Contact us to learn more about how our teen and child psychiatrists will support you and your teen through this challenging time. It’s never too early to intervene.