A recent school incident highlighted the urgent need for awareness around substance use among adolescents. A student, mistakenly believing she was consuming a weed brownie, was found unconscious and required 12 milligrams of Narcan to reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. This alarming event underscores the critical mental health challenges faced by many students, which can lead to substance use as a coping mechanism.

Data from the National Addictions Vigilance Intervention and Prevention Grama reveals that a significant percentage of adolescents turn to substances for various reasons: 73% use them to feel calm, 50% to aid sleep, and 41% to alleviate depression or anxiety. This dual struggle with mental health and substance use, referred to as co-occurring situations, necessitates comprehensive treatment approaches that address both issues simultaneously.

Parents are urged to be vigilant about their children's social interactions and online activities, as social media has become a new avenue for drug dealers to target youth. The anonymity afforded by smartphones allows adolescents to access substances without the traditional need for personal connections. The Drug Enforcement Administration has responded by releasing an emoji drug code reference guide to help parents decipher coded language used in online drug transactions. Common emojis associated with drugs include a pill for fake prescriptions, a snowflake for cocaine, and a green tree for marijuana.

As the landscape of substance use evolves, it is crucial for parents and caregivers to stay informed and proactive in safeguarding their children against the risks associated with drug use and mental health challenges.