7/10/23- SURGEON GENERAL & U.S.A. TODAY EDITORIAL BOARD
The Surgeon General, Dr. Murthy added, “ Drug poisonings and untreated mental health issues are killing American kids and you can help stop it!” Dr. Murthy used the term ‘drug poisonings!’ ( versus overdoses ) and, that is due to the powerful synthetic drug Fentanyl, especially fake pills.
We know every fake pill can be contaminated with Fentanyl from Percocet, Xanax, Oxy, and even Adderall. In the year 2021, drug poisonings more than doubled with a 84% increase due to fake, contaminated pills.
In addition, 2 out of 5 of those youth had mental health issues. Hence, our nation is facing a youth mental health crisis due to rates of youth depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, and drug poisoning.
As parents, educators, and youth leaders we have to be aware of ‘warning signs, primary care access, screening, and treatment options.’ Yet, 12-17-year-olds are not receiving care for substance use disorders and/or mental health issues.
Also, we know two-thirds of adolescent drug poisonings occur with other youth nearby. This suggests all adolescents need to be trained and carry Naloxone and especially know about texting or calling 988 for help concerning suicide issues!
Michael Carson
V.P. & Recovery Specialist, MYHouse of Mat-Su
Chair of the Mat-Su Opioid Task Force
State Opioid Steering Committee