Fentanyl and Toxic Friendships in College

College is often seen as a time for growth, learning, and making lasting friendships. But sometimes, the people we meet end up being more harmful than helpful. One of the hardest lessons I’ve learned is that not everyone is meant to have a place in your life. Looking back, I’ve realized that protecting my peace can mean making difficult decisions about who gets to stay in my life. Sometimes, removing toxic people is the only way to protect yourself.

There was a time when I lived with a roommate who struggled with addiction. The situation escalated when he made a dangerous choice in knowingly using fentanyl, which put his life at risk. I found him unconscious and immediately called 911 for help. My roommate fortunately survived, however he was embarrassed and angry with me. He began harassing me and making my life increasingly difficult. This situation as a whole was a traumatic experience, but it taught me a valuable lesson: you can’t save people who don’t want to be saved, and you don’t have to tolerate mistreatment just to be kind. 

It’s easy to make excuses for people when you’re just trying to be a good person, even to those who don’t deserve it. But there are clear signs that a friendship or relationship has become toxic: constant manipulation, gaslighting, emotional or physical abuse, a lack of support or respect, feeling drained, and / or feeling unsafe and anxious around them. These behaviors not only erode your sense of self, but also can have negative lasting effects on your mental health.

We sometimes hold on to toxic relationships out of guilt or obligation, but staying in those situations usually harms us. Prioritizing your mental health is not just valid, it’s necessary. Setting boundaries has been one of the most important lessons I’ve learned. I’ve discovered that it’s okay to say no, and it’s okay to remove people from my life who cause harm. You don’t owe anyone your time or energy, especially if they continuously disrespect you.

The trauma of dealing with toxic people lingers, but over time I’ve learned to focus on the lessons rather than the pain. I’ve come to realize that my peace, safety, and mental health are far more important than keeping people in my life who don’t respect my boundaries. If you’re struggling with toxic relationships, I want you to know that you deserve better. Walking away can be one of the bravest and healthiest choices you make.

Protecting your peace, even if it means cutting people off, is not only valid, it’s empowering. It’s not always easy, but it’s necessary. You deserve to be surrounded by people who respect you, uplift you, and make you feel safe. If someone is no longer providing that, it’s okay to walk away. You’re doing what’s best for you. The right people will respect your boundaries, and the wrong ones will test them...choose wisely.

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