Is Opioid Addiction on Campus a Problem in 2021?

You have probably heard the term opioid epidemic get thrown around in the news lately. It has become a burning issue in the media. Any person taking opioids is at risk of developing addictions, including students. So, is opioid addiction a problem for students in 2021? The answer to this question is yes. In this article, you will learn how opioid addiction is affecting students.

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1)            Students With Opioid Addiction

Students are more vulnerable to opioid abuse as they are more attracted to the pleasure associated with the use of drugs. An opioid drug-abusing friend has the greatest influence on their peers while in college. A student is most likely to use opioids because their classmates or friends are using the substance. Other things that can make a student use drugs include stress and experimentation.

You can look online for information on opioid crisis among students. You can get a detailed article on opioids and how they affect students. You can also get more information on how you can start your recovery process.

2)            Signs Of Opioid Addiction In Students

Signs of Opioid addiction may not show immediately, but a doctor can diagnose it. Some of the symptoms include weight loss, drowsiness, uncontrollable cravings, poor hygiene, unable to control opioid use, habit changes, vomiting, and nausea.

3)            How Opioid Addiction Is A Problem On Campus

Poor Academic Problems

Research shows that there is a strong correlation between substance abuse and poor academic performance. Opioid abuse among students may affect brain function, affecting their memory, judgment, motivation, learning as well as behavior control. Substance abuse students skip classes, and they do not complete assignments. All these factors contribute to poor academic performance.

Crime Involvement

One symptom of opioid abuse is an unexplained change in behavior and attitude in a student. Addicted students are often aggressive, hyperactive, irritated, and fight for petty things with their friends. They can also get involved in criminal issues. Furthermore, they get into trouble more frequently, including illegal activities and accidents. Therefore, substance abuse affects issues in the schools and community.

Health Issues

Opioid abuse causes serious long-term and short-term health issues for students and people of all ages. Blurred vision, dizziness, and nausea are some of the immediate effects caused by Opioid abuse. Substance abuse among youths is also associated with brain, heart, and other body organs damage, as well as anxiety and panic attacks. Although some effects remain for a short period, continuous use of opioids for a long time, can cause students to experience long-term health issues.

4)            Getting Help

Seeking help with Opioid abuse can be tough. This is because a student has to admit that things have gotten out of control. The decision to get help is huge and deserves support from friends, family, and professional counselors experienced in substance abuse.

My Say

Many students are abusing opioid drugs, not knowing the harmful effects of these unhealthy habits. Opioid abuse, whether occasional or habitual, does not only affect health but also has some negative effects. So, as a student, avoid opioids or any other drug abuse.