Teen drug use is on the rise. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), teens are now more likely than ever to try drugs. Nearly half of all high school seniors have attempted illicit drug use at least once.
Alcohol and other substance abuse may seriously affect high school students.
This article explores the effects of substance abuse on young people and how you can help them get treatment if they need it.
If you are concerned about your child’s drug abuse, contact one of the best rehab facilities in the United States, The Haven Detox-South Florida.
Key Takeaways
Drug abuse by teens is a problem that is growing in prevalence. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, it is now more common for teenagers to use drugs than in the 1960s.
- Teens are increasingly turning to drugs as an escape from stress.
- More significant drug use leads to physical health problems such as heart disease, liver damage, and HIV infection.
- There are many treatment programs for teen drug abuse.
- Treatment programs provide support services such as rehab or counseling that can help teens.
The Haven Detox-South Florida is a treatment center specializing in addiction treatment. Our services include detox treatment, relapse prevention, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and counseling. Contact us now at (561)328–8627.
Teen Drug Abuse Statistics
Statistics show that drug abuse is a problem among teens. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, in the United States, 10 percent of teens aged 12-17 report using drugs in the past month. Twenty-six percent of teenagers use drugs at least once a week.
Drug abuse can have negative consequences for older teens, including an increased risk of dropping out of school and getting into trouble with the police. It can also lead to addiction and other problems later in life.
Talk to your teen about the dangers of drug abuse. Help your teen find resources and keep an eye on your teen’s drug use to take any necessary steps to prevent them from abusing drugs.
Causes of Teenage Drug Use
Why are teen drug abusers so common? There are a few reasons. Teens are exposed to drugs at an earlier age than ever before.
With the spread of social media, teens can easily find and access drugs. And finally, today’s youth are more likely to have mental health problems, leading to drug addiction.
The causes of teenage drug abuse are often complex and multi-layered. There is no single “cause” of teen drug abuse, but there are a variety of factors that can contribute.
Some common causes of teenage drug abuse include:
Genetics
Some people are more likely to become addicted to drugs and alcohol than others due to their genes, which cannot be changed. If a teen has a family history of substance abuse, it’s more likely they will also become addicted.
Environment
Studies have shown a correlation between the environment in which adolescents grow up and their propensity to abuse drugs. This is because children raised in homes with chaotic and violent environments are more likely to turn to drugs as a form of self-medicating.
Adolescents living in poverty or homes with little parental supervision also tend to abuse drugs more frequently. These youngsters often have little access to positive role models and feel overwhelmed by their environment.
In addition, many teens who abuse drugs began abusing them before they turned 12. This is likely because early drug exposure can lead to an increased likelihood of addiction later in life.
Psychology
Many teens who use drugs suffer from psychological problems, such as depression or anxiety. When someone is depressed or anxious, they may not be able to think clearly or make decisions. This can lead them to seek drugs or alcohol to cope with their feelings.
Teenagers using drugs or alcohol may not be able to see the negative consequences of their behavior. Young adults continue using drugs or alcohol even when it is causing them problems, such as with their education or job.
Social Factors
The social environment in which teens grow up can also influence their attitudes and behavior around drug use. For example, if most of their friends are using drugs, it may become normal for the teen to do the same.
Signs of Drug Abuse in Teens
Teenagers are particularly vulnerable to drug abuse because their brains are still developing. They may not be as knowledgeable about the risks or consequences of using drugs, and they’re often more likely to try drugs for the first time because they feel peer pressure.
If you notice any of the following signs of drug abuse in your teens, talk to them about their drug use:
- Increased alcohol or drug usage.
- Changes in mood, such as extreme highs and lows, frequent irritability, or a decreased need for sleep.
- Withdrawal from friends and family.
- Increased risk-taking behavior, such as driving under the influence or participating in dangerous activities.
- Changes in appearance, such as weight gain or loss, poor hygiene, or a change in hairstyle.
Effects of Teen Drug Abuse
Teens who abuse drugs can suffer serious consequences. The effects of teen drug abuse can be devastating. Teen drug abusers often have difficulties in school, work, and relationships. They may also be at risk for other addictions, such as gambling or alcohol use.
Effects on Health
Teens who abuse drugs may also suffer serious health problems like AIDS or hepatitis C. They may experience physical health problems such as addiction, overdose, and death.
There are many effects of teen drug abuse, both short-term and long-term.
Short-term effects can include:
- Impaired judgment.
- Impaired motor skills.
- Hallucinations.
- Changes in mood or behavior.
They may also experience psychological health problems such as depression and anxiety. In extreme cases, teen drug abuse can lead to criminal activity such as theft or violence.
Long-term effects can include:
- Addiction.
- Psychiatric problems.
- Decreased life expectancy.
- Mental health issues.
Teen drug abuse is a serious problem that requires immediate attention. If you are concerned about your teen’s drug use, talk to them about it.
In some cases, teens may need professional help to overcome their addiction. If you cannot get your teen help, consider contacting a drug abuse hotline or rehab facility.
Effects On Social Life
Teen drug abuse has a profound and wide-ranging impact on social life. Teens who abuse drugs lose interest in social activities and relationships. This causes low self-esteem and increased isolation.
In addition, drug abusers often have problems with authority figures, damaging their ability to form healthy relationships. Teen drug abuse also makes it difficult to concentrate in school or to hold down a job. This can lead to social isolation and poverty.
Effects On Academic Life
Teen drug abuse has a big impact on academic life. For students who are abusing drugs, their performance in school can drop significantly. Drug abuse interferes with cognitive function, including memory, attention span, and focus.
Moreover, drug abuse can also lead to changes in mood and behavior that can affect how a student performs in class.
The consequences of teen drug abuse are serious, and parents and guardians need to understand the effects of drugs on a person’s life.
If you think your children are using drugs, it’s important to talk to them about it. You can start by asking questions about their drug use and exploring possible reasons. If you feel comfortable doing so, you can also discuss how to address the problem.
Treatment Programs to Overcome Drug Abuse in Teens
Treatment programs for drug abuse in teens are tailored to meet the specific needs of each individual. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to addiction treatment, and different programs may be more or less effective for different people.
Some common treatment approaches used in teen drug abuse programs include:
Detoxification Programs
Detoxification helps teenagers overcome drug or any other substance addiction. Detoxification programs may include prescription medications, therapy, and counseling.
Education and Counseling
This program helps teens learn about the dangers of drug abuse and how to avoid it. They may also receive counseling to help them deal with underlying problems contributing to their drug use.
Behavioral Therapy
Behavioral therapy helps teenagers modify their behavior to avoid drug use. Treatment may include group sessions and individual therapy.
Group Therapy
Teens struggling with addiction often benefit from group therapy sessions. In these sessions, they can share their experiences and learn from others who have been through the same thing.
Medications
Some teens addicted to drugs may need medications to manage their withdrawal symptoms and cravings. A doctor can prescribe these medications, but they must be taken as directed and monitored closely.
Support Groups
Support groups are another common element of teen drug abuse treatment. These groups provide a safe place for teens to discuss their experiences and feelings surrounding drug abuse. They can also provide a source of support during the healing process.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the effects of drug abuse on adolescence?
Drug abuse and addiction have devastating effects on the teenage brain, leading to declining academic performance, increased risk for substance abuse disorders, and even premature death.
A study published in The Journal of Neuroscience found that adolescent rats addicted to cocaine exhibited decreased production of BDNF (Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor). This protein is important for neuron survival and coordination.
These findings suggest that drug addiction may lead to a decrease in brain plasticity, which could lead to long-term consequences for brain development. Teenagers who abuse drugs experience changes in mood and behavior that can affect their social life and schoolwork.
What are 3 examples of drug abuse?
There are many different types of drug abuse. Here are three examples:
- Addiction to prescription drugs. This can happen when a person relies on medication, such as OxyContin; their doctor prescribed that. If they can no longer find the medication or can’t afford to buy it, they may turn to street drugs, such as heroin, to get the same effect.
- Abuse of illicit drugs, such as marijuana and cocaine. People who abuse them can develop an addiction to the high they get from using them rather than the substances themselves.
- Cocaine addiction. Cocaine is a highly addictive stimulant often used in nightclubs and other social settings.
How can parents deal with teen substance abuse?
Here are some tips for parents looking to help their teens stay safe and sober:
- Start early – Talk to your kids about drugs and alcohol from an early age. Let them know that using substances is not safe.
- Be open – Don’t keep secrets from your kids. If you know your child is using drugs or alcohol, be honest with them about what you’re doing to try to stop them.
- Get involved – If your child is struggling with drug or alcohol use, get involved in their treatment plan.
- Stay calm – If you become stressed out by your child’s drug or alcohol use, it will only make things harder for both of you.
Get Professional Help from The Haven Detox-South Florida
If your teen is struggling with substance abuse, The Haven Detox-South Florida can offer you the resources and support you need to overcome your addiction.
The Haven Detox offers various services and programs to help those struggling with addiction. Our treatment programs include detoxification, residential rehab, IV therapy, and more.
Our staff is experienced in helping people deal with addiction and its consequences, including cravings, withdrawal symptoms, and relapse. They will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan that considers your unique situation.
Get more information about our substance use treatment programs by calling us at (561)328–8627.
