Teenagers are using drugs and alcohol at an alarming rate. 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.
Early drug use can be very dangerous. It has long been thought of as a risk factor in the development of a substance use disorder and new research suggests that prescription drug abuse by teens may be linked to dating violence. The study, based on a nationwide survey of teenagers, found that nonmedical use of prescription drugs was correlated to an increased likelihood of initiating or being the victim of dating violence. For teenage boys, prescription drug abuse was linked to higher rates of sexual violence whereas, for teenage girls, prescription drug abuse was linked to higher rates of physical violence.
This new research highlights the importance of talking to your kids about drug and alcohol abuse. If you suspect that your teen may be suffering from a drug or alcohol addiction, you should consult with a certified addiction specialist at the earliest opportunity.
The Asana Recovery Center offers a supervised detoxification and residential treatment program in a supportive, relaxing, and inspiring environment. Call us at (949) 438-4504 to learn more about our drug and alcohol addiction treatment program today.
