The Fentanyl Epidemic: Finding Hope
- Kalea Gates
- Apr 15
- 4 min read
Updated: Aug 5
When we hear the word ‘Epidemic,’ it usually surrounds a virus outbreak. I believe in this case, ‘epidemic’ is the perfect word to use to describe the rise of Fentanyl in America. You have probably heard about Fentanyl, and’s damage it is doing to the American people. From overdoses to accidental laces, Fentanyl has earned the title of the most dangerous and most deadly. Fentanyl has taken many lives and continues to take lives daily. In this article, I will do a deep dive into the world of Fentanyl and the survivors of it. Covering the good, bad, and its ugly. But also, the perseverance and survival of those who, unfortunately, have fallen into the trap. Understanding the impact that Fentanyl has, not only on America, but on the individuals who have experienced it, is so important in today’s day and age. The rise of Fentanyl calls for action and an examination of its causes and consequences.
Understanding the Epidemic
Let us understand what Fentanyl is. Fentanyl is a strong synthetic drug, meaning that it is man-made. It is known to be one-hundred times more strong than standard Morphine and fifty times stronger than Heroin, a known street drug. I hope that gives you an idea or insight into how strong Fentanyl is. Despite its street presence, many do not know that Fentanyl is extensively used in professional medical settings for pain management. The problem occurs when it is used in an unmonitored and unregulated space, making the drug dangerous. Because Fentanyl is so strong, many turn to mixing it with other drugs to make the effects more potent. This is when overdoses and accidental laces occur. Unsuspecting people looking for their next fix are unaware that sometimes lethal doses of Fentanyl lurk within it. From 2020 to 2021, Fentanyl overdoses rose by over 50 percent. Two hundred deaths a day, to be exact. This is an epidemic.
How is Fentanyl Continuing to be Supplied?
Fentanyl was created in 1959 by a Belgian surgical analgesic named Paul Janssen. Dr. Janssen made the drug so strong that it was strictly used for large animals and hospital operating rooms. Fentanyl is man-made; it was created in a lab. What is stopping others from doing so as well? Because Fentanyl can be created in a lab, it makes it easy to produce and even easier to transport. Fentanyl is a strong drug, so a little goes a long way. Just a kilogram of Fentanyl is enough to kill 500,00 people alone. As of today, China and India are the main suppliers when it comes to the chemicals that make up Fentanyl. These chemicals are making their way into Mexico, and because we border them, they find their way onto American soil.
Who is Buying Fentanyl?
Fentanyl tends to target adults aged 25-34 and younger populations. It also targets those who are in underserved communities. These are people without health insurance, living in poverty, and with/or have some kind of mental illness. These factors sometimes lead them to turn to drugs, sadly. Nonetheless, Fentanyl’s reach affects all kinds of people going through all walks of life. Finding solutions to Fentanyl and implementing them can be hard, but there is no harm in brainstorming. There is a saying: Our thoughts can influence our actions. And that is why I am writing this article today.
Finding Hope
Ameera Boyd was someone who popped up on my TikTok feed one day, and I would like to spotlight her. She has been creating day-in-the-life videos, showing life after addiction. For a while, I was a silent follower, watching her perseverance and resilience. One thing that stood out to me was her positive outlook on life and her journey. She was so vulnerable about her feelings, which is so refreshing because we live in a world where addiction is a taboo topic. She continues to rise and focuses on making life better for her and her son. With just a TikTok video, Ameera breaks down the barrier of judgment and sheds light on addiction, showing us that it is possible to overcome.
The Path Forward
With the emergence of Fentanyl also came an emergence of resources. Though you cannot control a person’s choices they make, we can always find ways to keep them safe. In 2023, the FDA approved an over-the-counter use of Narcan. Narcan or Naloxone is a nasal spray that reverses the effects of an overdose. This is a great tool to have around or in a first-aid kit when it comes to drug use. Especially with the uprise in accidental lacing when it comes to Fentanyl. Fentanyl test strips are another harm-reduction tool, but at a low cost. These test strips alone have saved many, but education is much more powerful. In 2023, FACTS was introduced and is implemented today in schools in states like Texas. FACTS stands for: The Fentanyl Awareness for Children and Teens in Schools. This program aims to educate those before or if they ever encounter Fentanyl. This program provides information and the support that they need to prevent the misuse and accidental overdoses that come with synthetic opioids like Fentanyl. This may seem like a small step, but programs like these create a significant impact.
As of 2025, Fentanyl deaths have decreased by 30%. That is a pretty sizable decrease. Needless to say, the Fentanyl Epidemic has taken an immeasurable toll on America and the communities that reside in it. But remember, rain don’t last always. The sun will come out eventually. Whether it is someone leaving addiction behind or someone being saved by Narcan, these moments matter. They give us hope. It proves that this epidemic is not the end of the road. It is a call to action, to have compassion and empathy. We still have tons of work to do, but do not let that sway you. For every life lost, just know there is another one being saved. And for anyone caught in the grasp of addiction, know that recovery is possible. Now is the time to listen. To act. For their lives and a future free from this epidemic.
If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, reach out:
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