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He seems completely out of it. When we talk, it’s like I’m talking to a wall; his eyes with their pinpoint pupils close and he’ll nod off while I’m speaking. He’s withdrawn, often short and irritable. It scares me.
Today was the first time he’s lied to me. He’s skipped class only to be found vomiting in the bathroom. He’s fallen behind in his work and has been increasingly asking to borrow money. On top of that, my prescription pills have gone missing and he refuses to give me the truth when I know.
It’s misuse of opioids, a class of drugs found in various different forms. While they relieve pain by acting on the brain and nervous system, they’re highly addictive, which makes misusing them dangerous and even life-altering.
While “he” that I referenced lives only in my imagination, the reality is that the person described could be anyone in your life. It could be your friend, your parents, a loved one — anyone.
When faced with such a dilemma, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed or even powerless. But, there’s a way to hold power in such a menacing situation. You can protect not only them, but yourself.
If you suspect that a friend or loved one is using opiods, you can be their safe space. Approach their situation with empathy and kindness, letting go of judgement. Encourage them to seek help from a trusted adult or professional.
It’s crucial you have an emergency plan should there be signs of overdose, such as tachypnea (slower breathing), blue lips, or loss of consciousness.
In a situation that could be anyone’s reality, you can hold power and save someone.
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.
