Understanding Teen Substance Abuse: Facts, Risks, and Prevention
Teen substance abuse is quickly becoming an area of public health concern. More and more students of high school age are exploring alcohol and marijuana use.
The larger problem lies in the evolving landscape of substances and methods for use. Products are laced with other substances. There is easier access to various substances. Vaping has seen a rise in popularity, partly due to marketing efforts and its less abrasive scent.
Teens aren’t always the most forthcoming in their habits, especially when they know they’re not the most favorable. If you’re the parent of a teen, it’s important to have an awareness of their mental health and an understanding of substance abuse.
Common Substances Teens Use
Alcohol still reigns supreme as the most commonly used substance for teens. Sometimes drinking underage is a thrilling challenge. It’s also considered a rite of passage in some regards.
With legalization in many states, marijuana has increased in use among teen groups. Smoking and vaping have become an extremely popular trend. Vaping has become the new cigarettes of the earlier generations.
In some instances, prescription and/or over-the-counter medications are being incorrectly used for their side effects.
Dangers of Substance Abuse Among Teens
Adolescence is a crucial time for brain development. While the brain has reached its peak for physical growth, these years are spent developing functional capabilities. The brain doesn’t finish this fine-tuning process until sometime in the mid-20s. Using and abusing substances can pose serious risks for this process, hindering or halting development. Additionally, substance use can take a toll on other organ systems, like the liver and lungs.
Risk Factors
Risk factors for substance abuse in teens can be found in multiple areas.
Individual Risk Factors
Age: When starting young, as in under the age of 15, there is a higher likelihood that addiction will occur.
Background: A history of trauma can lead to unhealthy coping mechanisms, like substance use and abuse.
Mental health: When teens deal with anxiety and depression, substance use is a common coping mechanism.
Personality: An addictive or impulsive personality can lead teens easily down the road of experimentation and boundary pushing with substances.
Family Risk Factors
Family history: When there is someone in the family with a history of substance abuse, it can increase the risk for children.
Parenting: If there is frequent conflict within the home or a lack of parental supervision, it can result in experimentation.
Social Risk Factors
Peer pressure: At this age, peer influence can be one of the leading risk factors.
Accessibility: When substances are easily accessible, it changes the landscape. Teens who don’t have an easy time getting the desired substance are less likely to develop a problem.
Lack of role models: Not all teens share the same social settings. When there is a lack of positive mentors, it places them at a higher risk.
Prevention
The first step you can take in preventing substance abuse challenges with your teen is to improve your understanding of the situation. Learn what you can about signs and symptoms, and how to spot red flags.
Be mindful of behavior changes and don’t be afraid to insert yourself when you feel it's necessary. Open communication creates this environment of safety, a space where your teen feels comfortable discussing difficult topics. Be an active listener, but remember to do so without passing judgment.
Dedicate time for family bonding. Spending quality time as a family or one-on-one with your teen strengthens your family dynamic. Teens who have positive, well-rooted relationships with their families are less likely to turn to substances to cope.
Next Steps
Early intervention can be extremely effective if your teen is displaying concerning behaviors. There are many options, including family counseling, support groups, and individual therapy sessions.
Working with a teen therapist can help begin to uncover the root cause of the substance abuse, as well as build healthy coping mechanisms. If you’d like to learn more, contact us today.