When our journalism club sat down to pick a topic for this month’s feature article, the conversation turned quiet. A few of us had recently heard about a student at another school who was hospitalized after mixing alcohol and pills. Others shared stories about people they knew — siblings, cousins, even parents — who had struggled with substance use disorder.
That’s when we realized: this topic matters. Not just because it’s in the headlines or in health class, but because it’s right here, in our lives.
More Than Just “Drugs”
When people hear the term “substance use disorder,” many imagine hard drugs, needles, or crime scenes from TV shows. But for teenagers, it often looks very different. Based on what we learned through our interviews and anonymous surveys, the most common issues among teens include:
- Underage drinking at parties
- Vaping nicotine products during school hours
- Sharing ADHD medication before exams
- Mixing energy drinks with alcohol
“People think it’s not a big deal if you’re just drinking or vaping,” said one student. “But I’ve seen friends get dependent without even realizing it.”
These types of substance use often start casually — at a sleepover, at a game night, or from someone’s older sibling. But the impacts can be long-lasting, both physically and emotionally.
The Silent Killer: Fentanyl
During our research, one word kept coming up again and again: fentanyl. We had all heard of it, but most of us didn’t fully understand just how dangerous it is.
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that’s up to 50 times stronger than heroin. And the scary part? It’s showing up in fake pills — ones that look like Xanax, Percocet, or even ADHD meds. A dose smaller than a grain of sand can be deadly.
“People think it’s a legit pill because it looks like one,” said one student. “But it could be fentanyl, and you’d never know until it’s too late.”
There have already been heartbreaking cases of teens dying after taking what they thought was a single anxiety or pain pill. Just one. It’s not exaggeration — it’s happening in schools across the country:
- California teen dies after unknowingly taking a fentanyl-laced pill (SF Chronicle)
- NPR: Fentanyl overdoses are killing more young adults
We also learned that fentanyl test strips — which can detect the presence of fentanyl in pills or powder — are legal in many states and can save lives. But they’re not talked about much in school, and most students don’t know they exist.
This part of the crisis feels especially urgent. It’s not just about addiction — it’s about the risk of one bad pill ending a life.
The Why: Pressure, Pain, and Fitting In
We asked our classmates: why do teens turn to substances? The answers were honest and sometimes heartbreaking:
- “I was trying to sleep better.”
- “I felt anxious all the time.”
- “I didn’t want to be the only one not doing it.”
Many students described how stress from school, family life, and social media can feel overwhelming. Without enough support systems or coping strategies, turning to a substance can seem like the easiest escape — even if it’s risky.
“Everyone talks about mental health now, but I still don’t feel like I can be honest about mine,” said one junior. “It’s just easier to pretend I’m okay.”
What We’re Missing in Education
Health class and assemblies often talk about addiction, but several students felt those approaches are outdated or unrealistic.
“They tell you to ‘just say no,’ but no one tells you how to say it without getting made fun of,” one freshman shared.
Others said they wished the curriculum addressed real-life scenarios — like how to help a friend who may be struggling, how to recognize signs of overdose, or how to talk to an adult without fear of punishment.
In our research, we found that schools that include peer-led discussions, anonymous Q&A sessions, and practical skill-building (like how to refuse substances without losing social ground) have better outcomes. We believe students should have more input in how these programs are designed.
Hope, Help, and Resources
One of the most powerful discoveries during our project was learning just how many resources exist — but aren’t talked about enough:
- SAMHSA National Helpline – A 24/7, confidential treatment referral and information service
- Teen Line – Anonymous peer support by text or phone, run by trained teens
- Substance Abuse Hotline – Educational info and hotlines for people struggling
We created a printable handout with verified resources and posted it on our school bulletin board. We’ve also shared it with counselors, coaches, and club leaders. Even one conversation — one flyer — could make the difference.
Our Message to Other Students
If you’re reading this and struggling, we want you to know something: you are not alone. Asking for help doesn’t make you weak — it means you care about your future.
And if you’re someone who sees a friend struggling, don’t ignore it. Speak up. Offer a ride home. Send a link. Tell a trusted adult. Small actions save lives.
“I didn’t think anyone noticed,” one senior said, reflecting on their recovery. “But when one person finally asked if I was okay — that changed everything.”
This article won’t solve substance use disorder. But maybe it will start a conversation. And sometimes, that’s the first step.
— Lincoln High School Journalism Club
