Teenage drug abuse is much more widespread than is commonly understood. Researchers estimate that approximately 1,600 kids try prescription drugs for the first time every day and a study by the National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse (CASA) found that 75% of high school students have used addictive substances.
In order to defeat this dangerous trend, it is important to look at the factors that may lead to teen drug use in the first place. A recent study suggests that a common mental health disorder, Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) may be playing a major role in these alarmingly high rates of drug abuse among teens.
According to the study, children suffering from ADHD are more than twice as likely as other children to use and/or abuse drugs. The researchers noted, however, that this link is not immutable and, in fact, the treatment of ADHD through medication and behavioral therapy can actually lower a child’s risk of developing a substance use disorder.
If you believe your child may be using or abusing drugs, you should speak with a certified addiction treatment specialist as soon as possible. The use of illicit substances at a young age is highly correlated with the development of a substance addiction, so it is important to seek help at the earliest opportunity.
The Asana Recovery Center offers a comprehensive detoxification and residential treatment program for drug and alcohol addiction that can help those at any age or stage of addiction. To learn more about our program and facilities, call (949) 438-4504 today.
