When we consider how much drug addiction and alcoholism have plagued our country over the past decades, you begin to wonder how adults ever cope with the rehabilitation factor. After all, these drugs are some of the most dangerous substances on the planet, so it would take a lot of resilience, patience, and strength to overcome a dependency to these deadly chemicals. On that note, imagine how terrifying this experience is for teenage drug addicts. Although we would like to think otherwise, drug use among teens is more common than you might think. However, there is some good news: the rates are going down. Since January 2018, the National Institute on Drug Abuse has uncovered some of these statistics. Let’s take a closer look and find out more.
A Massive Drop in Drug Use
According to records from the Monitoring the Future survey, the total use of drugs among teens has completely dropped. On this list, however, the only exception is (obviously) the little green plant marijuana, which is unsurprising given the fact that it has been widely accepted in over 30 states. Here are some facts about the drugs that are (fortunately) not as popular among teens:
- Opioids: According to the report, teens’ use of all forms of painkillers has dropped since 2004, with the rate of painkiller abuse among 12th graders dropping from 10% (2004) to 4% (present). Even better, teens are using fewer opioids than they a decade ago.
- Alcohol: In 2016, the rate of teen binge drinking stayed relatively the same. However, since this drug boomed in the 1990s (among 8th and 12th graders) and 2000 (for 10th graders), it has declined.
- Tobacco: Overall, teens are not smoking as much as they used to. Over the course of two years, hookah use has dropped among 10th graders, with 10% confirming hookah use in 2017 (in contrast with 13% in 2016 and 23% in 2014). Meanwhile, cigarette use has plummeted from 25% (1997) to 4% (2017) among 12th graders.
The Flip Side of the Story
Despite the fact that these dangerous substances have declined in popularity, records indicate that teens are still consuming dangerous drugs like:
- Vaping: 28% of high school seniors admitted to smoking in this manner.
- Marijuana: Among 9th, 10th, and 12th grade students, marijuana has boomed by 24%.
- Inhalants: 5% of 8th graders have admitted to using these dangerous toxins.
Seeking Treatment for Drug Abuse and Addiction
Always remember that drug and alcohol do not have control over your life. You do. Are you suffering from a substance use disorder or a severe form of addiction? Do you have a friend or family member suffering from one or more of these debilitating illnesses? If you do, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our counselors and healthcare experts are ready to walk you through every step of the detox and withdrawal process and rehabilitation and guide you towards living a happier, healthier, and freer lifestyle. While the road to recovery might not be an easy road to travel, we promise to help you every step of the way. Take the first step to stay fit, healthy, and safe.
The time for you to take back control of your life is now. If you are interested in one of our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how to overcome your drug abuse, alcohol abuse, or addiction troubles today.
