Preparing for the Growing Threat of Fentanyl on College Campuses: A Call to Action

As colleges and universities gear up for the fall semester, a new threat is looming on campuses across the country: fentanyl. With a significant increase in mental health issues among students, it is crucial for school administrators and public health leaders to address the rising concern of opioid use, specifically fentanyl, among young adults.

According to a Washington Post analysis of CDC data, overdose deaths for ages 12 to 17 have doubled since the start of the pandemic, largely due to fentanyl. This potent drug is being mixed into non-opioid substances like cocaine and Adderall, leading to unintentional overdoses among college students who may not be aware of the risks.

To combat this crisis, colleges and universities must take proactive measures. One key step is to collect data on opioid overdoses on campus to track trends and plan interventions. By breaking down the stigma surrounding substance use, schools can better support their students and prevent tragedies.

Additionally, students should be trained to recognize the signs of opioid overdoses and have access to reversal agents. New York State has already implemented legislation requiring all college housing units to have opioid antagonists on hand, with Resident Assistants trained to administer them. Similar training programs should be implemented on campuses nationwide to ensure the safety of students.

Promoting harm reduction methods on campus is another crucial step in addressing the opioid crisis. By providing evidence-based strategies for safe substance use, colleges can empower students to make informed decisions and respond effectively in case of an overdose.

Dr. Ebony Rose Copeland, Director of Student Health at Howard University, emphasizes the importance of prioritizing data collection, student training, and advocacy efforts to protect the well-being of our future leaders. By taking proactive measures now, colleges and universities can help prevent further tragedies and support their students in navigating the challenges of substance use on campus.