KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — Fewer fatal drug overdoses have been reported in Knox County so far this year compared to last year. Fewer young people have also died from drug overdoses this year compared to last year, according to the Knox County Regional Forensic Center.
People between 15 and 24 years old are typically either attending high school or college or are starting out in the workforce. So far this year, 10 people in the age range died due to a drug overdose, according to the forensic center. During the same time last year, 25 young people died from overdosing.
"It's pretty concerning to us, as that age group is supposed to be steering clear from illicit substances," said Chris Thomas, with Knox County Regional Forensic Center. "Fentanyl, meth and amphetamines — neither have a safe level. Any amount can be fatal."
Autopsy reports show fentanyl is the leading cause of drug deaths among young people. Advocates said some people in the age group may knowingly use the drug, while others may not realize they're taking it.
"There are circumstances where a lot of these people are buying things online and getting things that are not exactly what they think," said Thomas.
The Metro Drug Coalition said being exposed to drugs during a person's teenage years can increase the chance of addiction. Karen Pershing, interim director of primary prevention services, said people's brains continue developing until their mid-20s and using drugs in that timeframe can alter a person's mental health.
It's the same time when many people may experiment with drugs.
"Unresolved trauma can definitely lead to anxiety, depression or bipolar disorder," she said.
Pershing said mental health can lead high schoolers, college students and young adults to experiment with drugs.
"Unresolved trauma can defiantly lead to anxiety, depression," Pershing said.
Pershing encourages parents to talk and educate their kids about substance awareness at home. She said it's key to build a comfortable and honest communication dialogue.