Consider This from NPR Young people are dying of opioid overdoses. Are students and campuses prepared?
Aug 11, 2024
The alarming rise in opioid overdose deaths among young adults has surged by 34% since 2018, fueling urgent conversations on campuses. Personal stories highlight the struggles with addiction and the need for better support systems. Colleges are beginning to tackle this crisis through naloxone distribution and peer-led training programs. Moreover, awareness among students is growing, with initiatives aimed at educating peers about fentanyl dangers and promoting safe practices, like carrying Narcan for emergencies.
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Bobby Schubert's Story
- Bobby Schubert, after overcoming addiction and getting into UCLA, relapsed and died from a fentanyl-laced Xanax.
- His mother, Monica Vera Schubert, questions UCLA's overdose preparedness and response.
Overdose Crisis on the Rise
- Overdose deaths among young adults rose 34% between 2018 and 2022, according to the CDC.
- Fentanyl is often disguised in other drugs, increasing the risk of accidental overdose.
Data Deficiency on Campuses
- Colleges often lack data on overdoses, hindering prevention efforts, says Christina Freibott.
- Medical privacy and underreporting contribute to this lack of awareness.