Counseling_ Fentanyl Awareness

Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid that is prescribed by medical professionals to treat severe pain. However, illegally manufactured fentanyl has become a growing threat to communities across Texas and the nation. Because fentanyl is extremely potent—50 to 100 times stronger than morphine—even a very small amount can be deadly.

One of the greatest dangers is that fentanyl is often mixed into other drugs or made to look like legitimate prescription medications. In some cases, counterfeit pills have even been disguised as candy. Many young people who consume fentanyl are unaware that it is present in what they are taking.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), teen overdose deaths involving fentanyl have increased dramatically in recent years. An overdose can slow or stop breathing, preventing enough oxygen from reaching the brain and resulting in death.

Parents can play an important role in prevention by talking openly with their children about the risks of fentanyl, staying informed about current drug trends, and encouraging healthy decision-making. By working together, families, schools, and communities can help protect our youth from this dangerous drug.

Fentanyl Fast Facts

• Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is 50–100 times more potent than morphine.
• As little as 2 milligrams can be fatal.
• More than 71,000 Americans died from fentanyl-related overdoses in 2021.
• Texas experienced an 89% increase in fentanyl-related deaths from 2020 to 2021.
• Counterfeit pills containing fentanyl are often designed to look like legitimate prescription medications and may target young people.
• Fentanyl can affect anyone, including individuals with no history of substance misuse.