What Is Fentanyl Island in California?

Oakland, California, is facing a significant rise in its homeless population, many of whom are grappling with substance use disorders. A particular area between 7th and Brush streets in West Oakland has become notorious, earning the nickname Fentanyl Island of California. Fentanyl, a synthetic opioid, is much more potent than morphine, being 50 to 100 times stronger. Initially approved by the FDA for treating severe pain, it is now widely manufactured and sold illegally. The National Institute on Drug Abuse reports that fentanyl is one of the leading substances linked to overdose deaths across the United States.

Fentanyl Island in California is overwhelmed by homeless individuals struggling with drug addiction. Local advocates have pointed to factors such as open-air drug markets, an influx of “drug tourists,” rampant theft, and lenient camping regulations as contributors to the situation. Statistics indicate that between 24% and 50% of homeless individuals in the U.S. are affected by substance use disorders. Addiction can severely disrupt various aspects of life, including health, relationships, finances, and job stability, all of which can lead to homelessness. Conversely, the experience of homelessness can heighten the risk of substance abuse, as individuals may resort to drugs or alcohol to cope with hunger, fear, and instability. This creates a challenging cycle that is hard to escape.

Opioids rank as one of the most prevalent drug addictions and are involved in the majority of overdose deaths. Given the severe consequences of addiction, including the potential for homelessness, individuals need to seek help as soon as possible, such as through fentanyl addiction treatment programs in California. Overcoming substance use disorders is often difficult without support, but treatment programs can offer effective coping strategies for long-term recovery, along with aftercare services like job placement and sober living support.

How Many People Have Died From Fentanyl in California?

The fentanyl crisis in California has become a serious public health crisis primarily due to its alarming rate of overdose fatalities. Reports from CalMatters indicate that the number of fentanyl-related deaths began to surge dramatically around 2019. Recent statistics reveal that from September 2021 to September 2022, there were 5,942 fatalities attributed to fentanyl overdoses, accounting for approximately 86% of all opioid-related deaths. Additionally, out of 21,000 emergency room visits linked to opioids, nearly one-third involved fentanyl.

While opioids, in general, carry a high risk of addiction, fentanyl poses unique dangers that make it particularly deadly compared to other synthetic opioids. It is 50 times more potent than heroin and 100 times stronger than morphine, meaning that even a minuscule amount can be fatal. As a central nervous system (CNS) depressant, fentanyl can significantly slow or even halt a person’s breathing. Furthermore, most illicit fentanyl is produced in unregulated labs, leading to inconsistent potency, which leaves users unaware of the exact dosage they are consuming. A person who previously used a less potent batch might mistakenly believe they can handle the same amount of a stronger batch, resulting in an unintentional overdose.

Moreover, many other drugs like cocaine and methamphetamine are being cut with fentanyl, increasing the risk of accidental consumption. Just 2 milligrams of fentanyl can be lethal, particularly for individuals who have never used opioids and lack any tolerance. Unfortunately, it is impossible to visually identify whether a drug has been laced with fentanyl. To combat this issue, California is actively promoting and distributing fentanyl test strips for free, aiming to reduce the number of accidental overdose deaths linked to fentanyl.

How Many Homeless People Are in Oakland, CA?

Over the last decade, the number of homeless individuals in Oakland, California, has surged, largely due to a housing crisis and persistent economic disparities. Recent data from The Oaklandside reveals that in 2024, approximately 5,490 people are without permanent housing in Oakland, marking a 9% rise from the figures recorded in 2022. Alarmingly, around 67% of this population is unsheltered, living outdoors or in vehicles rather than in shelters. Although the unhoused population in Oakland continues to increase, the growth rate has significantly slowed. From 2017 to 2019, the homeless count jumped by 47%, while the increase from 2019 to 2022 was 24%, and to the present day has only increased by 9%.

In response to this pressing issue, California voters have approved Proposition 1, which seeks to enhance the state’s behavioral health system by providing funding for mental health services, substance use disorder treatment, and supportive housing for veterans and those experiencing homelessness. It is estimated that between 24% and 50% of homeless individuals in the U.S. struggle with substance use disorders, complicating their path to stable housing. Access to effective mental health and substance use treatment can be crucial for those without homes. Additionally, Oakland has implemented emergency measures, such as community cabins, to address the homeless crisis.

How Many Overdoses Are There in California?

The number of overdose fatalities in California has skyrocketed, more than doubling since 2017. Data from 2021 revealed that over 10,898 residents lost their lives due to drug-related overdoses. Breaking down drug overdose deaths by drug type can be complicated, as multiple drugs are often involved; however, most drug overdose deaths do involve opioids, particularly fentanyl. Drug dealers are increasingly lacing various substances, such as heroin, cocaine, and methamphetamines, with fentanyl, heightening the risk of overdose for anyone who uses drugs. It is more important than ever for those struggling with substance misuse to seek assistance from trusted addiction treatment centers to break free from drug use and avoid the risk of accidental fentanyl overdose.

What State Has the Highest Addiction Rate?

The battle against drug abuse in the United States has been ongoing for decades, yet the issue continues to escalate despite numerous efforts. According to 2022 statistics, West Virginia leads the nation with the highest rate of drug overdose deaths, followed closely by the District of Columbia and Tennessee. Alarmingly, nearly 21 million Americans struggle with some form of addiction, but only about 10% receive the necessary treatment. Opioids, particularly fentanyl, are among the most addictive substances, with fentanyl being the most lethal. It is vital for those grappling with substance use disorders to seek professional help promptly, as addiction is a progressive disorder. Fentanyl’s extreme potency can lead to rapid addiction, but the good news is that effective treatment programs for fentanyl addiction are available, and recovery is possible for everyone, regardless of the severity of their addiction.

Comprehensive Fentanyl Addiction Treatment in California is Available at Resurgence Behavioral Health

Fentanyl addiction can wreak havoc on every aspect of a person’s life, which increases the risk of homelessness. Using fentanyl is like playing a dangerous game of Russian Roulette; it’s only a matter of time before someone encounters a dangerously potent batch and suffers an overdose. If you find yourself struggling to quit opioids or fentanyl, or if you’re in Fentanyl Island, California, Resurgence Behavioral Health can provide you with treatment options to overcome fentanyl addiction for good. Our comprehensive treatment programs utilize evidence-based therapies, medications, and dual diagnosis care to support long-term recovery. We provide a complete range of services, including medical detox, inpatient care, outpatient programs, and aftercare support, empowering individuals to reclaim their lives.

For more information about personalized fentanyl addiction treatment programs, reach out to Resurgence Behavioral Health today at 855-458-0050.

External Sources

• National Institute on Drug Abuse – What is Fentanyl? 
• CalMatters – California’s Opioid Deaths Increase by 121% in 3 Years. What’s Driving the Crisis? 
• The OaklandSide – Homelessness grew 9% in Oakland—But it’s Slowing Down 

David Rofofsky
After growing up in New York, David chose to get help with substance abuse in California because of the state's reputation for top-tier treatment. There, he found the treatment he needed to achieve more than nine years of recovery. He's been in the drug and alcohol addiction rehab industry for eight years and now serves as the Director of Admissions for Resurgence Behavioral Health. David remains passionate about the field because he understands how hard it is to pick up the phone and ask for help. However, once the call is made, someone's life can be saved.

Research | Editorial