The 2006 Office of Applied Studies, or OAS report, notes that "In the United States in 2006, one third of adolescents aged 12 to 17 drank alcohol in the past year, one fifth used an illicit drug, and one sixth smoked cigarettes." Substance abuse is a serious problem among teenagers, many of whom are unaware of or believe they're immune to the risks it poses for them.
Risk Factors
The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry notes that while many children and teenagers who experiment with drugs and alcohol eventually stop altogether or only participate in occasional use, some will develop a serious and lasting dependency problem. Children who have a family history of substance abuse, children with emotional problems and those who feel socially isolated are at higher risk of dependency. However, emotionally healthy children can also become dependent.
Any teen who abuses alcohol or drugs, even occasionally, puts himself at greater risk for violence, sexual indiscretions, unwanted pregnancies, accidents, disease and suicide.
Causes
According to the Partnership for a Drug-Free America website, which cites Dr. Neil I. Bernstein, teens who suffer from depression or anxiety may turn to drugs or alcohol as a means of escape or self-medication. Some teens may be heavily influenced by peers, popular media or even parents who portray alcohol or drugs as fun, exciting, or a normal teenage rite of passage. Other teens--especially those who are thrill-seeking, or who lack an emotional or creative outlet--use drugs out of boredom. Still others use drugs because it gives them confidence they wouldn't otherwise have.
Substance Types
According to the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, commonly abused substances among teens include alcohol; prescription pain and psychiatric medications; non-prescription cold, diet and sleep medications; glue and aerosol fumes, marijuana; meth; cocaine; crack; hallucinogens such as LSD and PCP; heroin; and Ecstasy.
Prevention
One of the most effective methods of preventing teen substance abuse is parental involvement. Modeling responsible behavior, setting and enforcing clear boundaries and expectations and being an active part of your child's day-to-day life will help her make good choices. Maintaining an open dialogue with your child about substance abuse from an early age will help to demystify drugs and alcohol and lessen their appeal. It will also give you an opportunity to correct any misinformation that could cause your child to downplay the risks of substance abuse. Be vigilant about where your child goes, what she does and who her friends are, and involve her in healthy activities she enjoys.
Signs
Serious negative changes in your child's behavior, mood, appearance, style of dress or choice of friends can indicate substance abuse. Common signs include red, glazed-over eyes; aggression, irritability or depression; withdrawal from family, friends and activities; and a negative, hopeless attitude.
Your child can exhibit many of these signs without abusing drugs or alcohol. However, they should be brought to the attention of your pediatrician or a mental health physician.
