Protect the Ones You Love - Start the Conversation Now!

Fentanyl Awareness

Excitement is in the air, the nation just celebrated Thanksgiving, Christmas and we brought in the New Year! It is truly a wonderful time of the year that unites families and friends to celebrate. Nothing is as precious as the ones we love. The greatest gift we can give is initiating the conversation regarding the dangers of drugs and alcohol.

Every day, kids are pressured to try drugs and alcohol-often before they understand the risks. These critical moments can shape a young person’s entire future.

The average age of experimentation is just thirteen, and 9 out of 10 additions begin in the teen years. But here is the good news, as parents, grandparents, and caregivers, we can give kids the tools they need to make healthy choices and stay substance-free.

The work is more urgent than ever. Every year, fentanyl, alcohol, and other drugs claim thousands of young lives, devasting families. Addiction impacts millions and cuts futures short. What is even more shocking is that there are no national drug and alcohol prevention programs taught in schools-none at all.

It appears that with the incoming administration positive change is in the air. President-elect Trump has committed to place additional focus on the border to address the fentanyl crisis. Trump stated that “Canadian Prime Minister Trudeau has made a commitment to work with the U.S. to end this terrible devastation to U.S. families.” Trump has also had conversations with Mexico’s president and warned China of additional tariffs. While these discussions are in the early phases both appear to be on track for positive change.

In addition, Trump said on November 27, that he intends to roll out a “large scale” advertising campaign aimed at informing Americans of the dangers of fentanyl when he takes office in January. Trump did not provide further details.

While many parents may feel challenged to discuss these issues with their children, it is imperative to learn the facts, find opportunities to Start the Conversation Now, and have these conversations repeatedly overtime. Too often, though, parents get busy with work and everyday life, these discussions get overlooked.

HOW TO TALK TO YOUR KIDS ABOUT FENTANYL.

HAVE A CONVERSATION WITH YOUR CHILD

Start with a general conversation about pain, stress, mental health, and medications. Mental health is a key factor in substance use: 86% of youth 13-17 are overwhelmed and 79% say anxiety and stress are a common reason to misuse medication.

Explain that pain and stress are normal things that happen in life and provide suggestions on how to manage them.

EXPLAIN WHAT FENTANYL IS AND WHY IT IS SO DANGEROUS

Fentanyl is a powerful opioid being added to fake prescription pills and other drugs you can buy “off the street.” Fentanyl is added to increase profits because it is cheaper and stronger.
One pill can kill. A potentially lethal dose of fentanyl is the size of 2 grains of salt.
If it is not from your child’s doctor or pharmacy, do not take it.
Anyone who misuses prescription pills or uses drugs, even the first time, is at risk of a fentanyl overdose.
A “friend” or drug dealer may not know if the product they are selling contains fentanyl, and there is no way they can guarantee that it does not contain fentanyl.

FOCUS CONVERSATION ON SAFETY

Instead of focusing the conversation on punishment for drug use, share that you care about them and want them to be safe.

As parents, you are an important influence in your kids’ lives. One of the best ways to protect kids from substance use is by having regular and open conversations to educate them about the risks. Listen to them without judgment. Also monitor their social media use. Drugs are often provided by someone that they know or a stranger that they meet on social media. I love you no matter what-you can always talk to me.