Oregon has reversed its drug decriminalization law after three years, as rising homelessness, overdoses, and the influx of powerful synthetic drugs like fentanyl and xylazine threatened to overwhelm the state. The new law recriminalizes most drugs and aims to push users into treatment or impose penalties, signaling a shift in policy to address the growing crisis.

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Fentanyl, a potent synthetic opioid, has driven overdose deaths up nearly 3,200% from 2002 to 2023, impacting all age groups, especially men and adults aged 25–44. Despite its deadly toll, media coverage has diminished. Largely produced in illegal labs using chemicals from overseas, fentanyl continues to spread through illicit markets, threatening families and military readiness. Urgent action is needed to combat this crisis.

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Avoiding drug use during pregnancy reduces the risk of stillbirth. Substances like cocaine, meth, marijuana, opioids, and alcohol can harm fetal development, leading to complications and preventable losses. Early intervention and support are crucial for healthier outcomes for both mother and baby.

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Awareness of adolescent overdose deaths is crucial to save young lives. Despite a decline in drug use among teens, overdose deaths have more than doubled due to the millions of counterfeit pills laced with lethal doses of fentanyl. Parents, teachers, and communities must work together to educate and protect youth from the dangers of illicit drugs and ensure safe prescription practices.

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This article explores the crucial role of life skills training in preventing relapse among individuals recovering from substance abuse. Drawing on recommendations from international bodies like the World Health Organization, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, and the National Institute on Drug Abuse, the article highlights key skills such as decision-making, communication, and stress management. It underscores the importance of evaluating rehab programs based on their effectiveness in teaching these skills, emphasizing that strong life skills are essential for maintaining long-term sobriety in the face of everyday challenges.

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Dextromethorphan, found in many cough medicines, is abused far too often by teens eager to experience its psychoactive effects. Despite being legal in every state, it poses serious risks such as delusions, hallucinations, violence, addiction, and death. Some states have imposed age restrictions, but greater awareness and control are needed to combat this issue. Recovery is possible with proper support.

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The article reveals the detrimental effects of commonly abused substances on the human brain, ranging from alcohol and benzodiazepines to cocaine, hallucinogens, inhalants, ketamine, MDMA, methamphetamine, and opioids.

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The article explores the rise of xylazine, a veterinary tranquilizer now contaminating the American drug supply, especially supplies of heroin and fentanyl. This potent drug poses severe health risks as it causes deep, rotting wounds among users. Its presence has rapidly spread across the country, amplifying the opioid crisis and increasing dealer profits. The article emphasizes the urgent need for effective drug rehabilitation, education on drug dangers, and collective action to address this escalating issue.

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Despite a decline in overall drug use among teenagers, fatal drug overdoses among teens have spiked. Why has this happened? Drug trafficking organizations first discovered how easy it was to manufacture illicit fentanyl and then learned to press it into tens of millions of pills for the American market.

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The article examines the aftermath of Oregon’s Measure 110, which decriminalized personal quantities of drugs with the aim of redirecting funds toward addiction recovery services. There are many signs the law has failed to meet its objectives, with few individuals seeking help despite citations, increased crime and drug use, and a surge in fentanyl-related deaths. Now, the state has begun to shift its opinions and actions toward recriminalization.

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