Every year, the rate of deaths related to drug overdose in the United States continues to climb. According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, an independent health policy research organization, in 2022, 3,062 people died in the state of Tennessee from an opioid overdose: 229 of those were between the ages of 0-24, and 732 were between the ages of 25-34. But what are opioids? And why should college students care about them? 

As a college student, it’s important to be aware of the risks of opioids, like fentanyl, if you or anyone you know plans to go out at all during their four years in college. Any substance consumed at a party- whether that be a legal or illegal substance consumed by someone of age or not, can be laced. Remember to follow the law and only use substances you are old enough to use in the states you are legally allowed to use them in. By practicing the following harm reduction tips, you ensure a safe and happy experience for everyone.

Photo of the lethal dose of fentanyl compared to a penny. (Contributed/U.S. Attorney)

To make sure you stay safe, it’s important to remember the following things: Follow the law: make sure what you’re consuming is legal in your state, and you’re old enough to consume it. Know who you get it from:  if the previously mentioned statement is true, trust your source.

Testing and overdose prevention: Test your supply. Health departments typically provide test strips for things like fentanyl; more information can be found online. Narcan, or Naloxone, is also a valuable resource. Narcan can reverse an opioid overdose if you see the signs in someone. 

According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, you should call 911 if:

  • An individual’s face is extremely pale or clammy.
  • Their body goes limp.
  • Their nails or lips have turned purple or blue.
  • Their breathing/heartbeat slows or stops.
  • They cannot speak or be woken up.

If you witness these symptoms, call 911, and if you carry Narcan, that is the time to administer it. Much like test strips, health departments provide free training and Narcan to the community. Additionally, Tennessee’s Good Samaritan Law protects you from legal trouble if you’re helping someone in need.

(Contributed/X)

But what about alcohol? It’s important to be aware of the risks of drink spiking, too. According to the Office on Women’s Health, nearly 11 million women in the United States have been victims of rape while they were drunk or drugged. If you are of legal age and drinking, make sure to watch your drink, and stay close to friends if you are in a group. If you notice a change in your drink’s color, or if it’s fizzing when it shouldn’t be, pour it out and get a new one. If you or a friend have difficulty seeing or speaking, or feel dizzy, get help. If you can’t intervene, and the worst happens, be a support system to those who come to you saying they were date raped or drugged. Support and empathy is just as valuable of a resource as drug testing and Narcan, no matter the situation.

It’s important to remember that no matter what you do, there is strength in numbers. If you’re going out, share your location with a trusted friend or family member. NEVER be afraid to ask for help, and always be aware of your surroundings. It’s better to be upset because you’re leaving a party early and sober, rather than leaving in an ambulance.

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