By the time they are seniors, almost 70 percent of high school students will have tried alcohol, half will have taken an illegal drug, nearly 40 percent will have smoked a cigarette, and more than 20 percent will have used a prescription drug for a non-medical purpose. The reasons for this can vary from peer pressure, an attempt to deal with problems at home or school, to the negative influence of parents or other adults who abuse drugs or alcohol.
The availability of drugs within the neighborhood and school, and whether the adolescent’s friends are using them, plays a role in teenage drug use. The family environment is also important. Violence, physical or emotional abuse or the presence of drugs or alcohol in the household increase the likelihood an adolescent will use. Genetics can also have an impact on the likelihood of addiction, such as poor impulse control, a need for excitement, and mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, or ADHD. Also, the prefrontal cortex, the part of the brain responsible for assessing situations, making sound decisions, and controlling impulses, is typically not fully formed until a person is in their mid-twenties.
There can be long-term adverse health effects of teenage drug use. Chronic marijuana use in adolescence, for example, has been shown to lead to a loss of IQ that cannot be recovered even if the individual quits. Impaired memory and logical thinking skills can lead to poor performance in school, which can affect the rest of someone’s life by leaving them unprepared for college or a career.
If you have kids, talk to them about the dangers of substance abuse even before they become teenagers. If you and your child see someone using drugs or smoking, or if someone close to the family has a readily apparent problem, make it a teachable moment. Sneak it into other conversations, like when talking about healthy eating or hygiene habits. Lay down the rules and their consequences, and enforce them if you have to.
If you used drugs in your own past, be honest about it. Share the reasons you started, the ways it affected your life, and the reasons why you now understand that it was wrong.
Some of the signs of addiction in teens may be mistaken for normal teenage angst. Poor performance in school, a sudden change in friend groups, loss of interest in activities, and mood swings are all warning signs.
If you do believe that your teenager has a substance abuse problem, try to remain calm rather than becoming angry or accusatory. It may be helpful to have a professional talk with them instead, as they might be more willing to listen. If detox and therapy are necessary, look for a treatment center that provides behavioral treatment, such as teaching healthy coping mechanisms and life skills. Addiction medications, while widely prescribed for adults, are not generally approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for adolescents, so talk therapy may be your best bet.
If you or a loved one need help to quit drugs or alcohol, Asana Recovery offers medical detox, along with both residential and outpatient programs. Call us any time at (949) 438-4504.
