Drug abuse is a prevalent problem, affecting millions of teens every year. Focus Adolescent Services reports that 1.2 million U.S. adolescents ages 12 to 17 smoked cigarettes, 63,100 drank alcohol and 586,000 experimented with marijuana on an average day in 2006. Thousands also used inhalants, heroin and cocaine. Many parents are shocked to learn of their teen's dangerous drug exploits. While nothing can definitively predict the risk of drug abuse in teenagers, certain factors can make experimentation more likely.
Family History
Teens with a family history of drug abuse are at risk for developing addictions to drugs or alcohol, according to the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP). Family can be extremely influential, encouraging the way teens act, think and develop. Teens with addicted family members, such as parents, older siblings and close relatives, may view drug use as acceptable or common behavior.
Depression
Teenage depression and drug abuse are often linked. Many teens turn to drugs as a way to self-medicate. In an article published on DrugFree.org, Dr. Thomas G. Dewitt of Children's Hospital Medical Center reports that teen depression can be triggered by a traumatic event in the family, or an episode that results in feelings of inadequacy. Teens who have endured the loss a parent, divorce or a family move may find it difficult to deal with anger, sadness or feelings of frustration. Drugs may be a tempting approach to easing those feelings.
Peer Pressure/Low Self-Esteem
Peer pressure is a strong force in the life of a teen, and can have negative or positive results. Teens with low self-esteem are especially susceptible to the sway of their peers. Their desire to gain acceptance by behaving boldly or dangerously can cause them to try drugs. Their risky behavior sometimes ventures beyond experimentation to full-blown addiction. Parents who suspect drug use in their teen may see warning signs such as, fatigue, personality changes (mood swings, lack of interest), decreased interest in school or former hobbies and friendships. Discipline problems may also emerge when teens get involved with drugs. If you have concerns, the AACAP recommends consulting a physician to rule out physical causes.
