Substance abuse is the misuse of mind-altering substances like illegal or prescription drugs. Substance abuse is especially dangerous to children and teens because of the effects of drugs and alcohol on their underdeveloped nervous systems. There are many treatment programs for helping substance abusers regain sobriety, but prevention remains the best option. Learning to recognize the signs of substance abuse in a child helps you act sooner to help your child.
Statistics
Substance abuse remains a looming health threat to kids and teens. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, one in 100 teens has used methamphetamine in the past year, while three in 100 reported using Ecstasy or cocaine during that time. Tobacco use has declined greatly since the 1990s, while marijuana remains the most popular drug among teens, with roughly one-fourth of 10th grade students having tried it.
Warning Signs
Substance abuse isn't always obvious to the untrained eye. Symptoms can include sudden changes in mood, behavior, lifestyle and performance in school and other activities. According to the website Anti-Drug, changes in friends, increased secrecy and declining grades are possible signs of substance abuse in teens. Possession of paraphernalia like unlabeled prescription pill bottles, cigarette papers, syringes and pipes is a very reliable indicator of drug use.
Health Effects
Drugs and alcohol can have a powerful effect on the minds and bodies of children. The specific health risks depend largely on the drug being used as well as the dosage, frequency of use and whether other drugs are being abused concurrently. Overdose and addiction are among the most serious immediate risks of substance abuse. Health problems stemming from chronic organ damage, sleep deprivation and poor nutrition are common among long-term drug abusers. Secondary consequences of drug abuse can include self-injury, legal trouble and worsening of mental problems like depression or anxiety.
Prevention/Solution
The best defense against substance abuse in children is prevention. Drug awareness programs led by teachers, law enforcement and other community members can be effective in influencing behaviors when combined with parent-child communication and supervision. Honest discussions about the negative effects of drugs on health, relationships, productivity and appearance allow kids to make informed decisions about their health and safety.
Considerations
Many of the outward signs of drug abuse are similar to those seen in other mental health disorders. In addition, substance abusers often suffer from underlying conditions like depression or anxiety that can make drug abuse more difficult to identify and treat. Children who exhibit sudden or extreme changes in mood or behavior should be evaluated by a mental health professional to rule out other problems.
