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Every day, more than 130 people in the United States die from an opioid overdose, and teenagers are not immune to this crisis.
In fact, recent data from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention states that 14% of high school seniors report having misused prescription opioids at least once. Recognizing the warning signs and knowing how to help can truly make the difference between life and death. When it comes to identifying opioid misuse in adolescents, research highlights both physical and behavioral signs.
According to Mayo Clinic, teens misusing opioids often show symptoms such as drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, constipation, sweating, headaches, vomiting, loss of appetite, mood changes, and weakness. Behavioral red flags may include sudden changes in friends, shifts in sleep or eating patterns, declining school performance, requests for money, or unexplained possession of medicine containers and drug paraphernalia (American Academy of Pediatrics).
Research shows that 3.8% of adolescents and 7.8% of young adults report opioid misuse or an opioid use disorder, and many obtain these drugs from family or peers (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration). This makes it critical for teens to remain vigilant about their friends’ well-being. Sometimes, noticing even a small change in someone you care about—like a friend withdrawing from activities they once loved—can be a sign that they are struggling.If a teen suspects that a friend or loved one is misusing opioids, the most important step is to act with compassion, not judgment. Approaching the person with patience and care, saying something as simple as “I am worried about you because I care about you,” can help them feel less alone.
Conversations should happen privately, calmly, and without blame. Encouraging the person to reach out to a trusted adult, school counselor, or healthcare provider can open the door to recovery. For severe cases, seeking immediate medical help is essential—especially if there are signs of overdose, such as slowed breathing or unresponsiveness.
Ultimately, being a supportive friend—someone who listens, shows empathy, and helps connect others to professional support—can protect teens from the dangers of opioid misuse. No one has to face this crisis alone, and sometimes one compassionate voice can be the spark that guides someone toward healing.
This article was written as part of a program to educate youth and others about Alameda County’s opioid crisis, prevention and treatment options. The program is funded by the Alameda County Behavioral Health Department and the grant is administered by Three Valleys Community Foundation.
