Adolescent Substance AbuseAdolescent Substance abuse has become very prevalent in our society. Children as young as six and seven years of age have said that they have tried an illicit drug. Thinking of the future of our youth this can causes great concern. Among our youth, more than half ages 12-17 that were asked, admitted to using an illicit drug other than marijuana such as cocaine, methamphetamine, inhalants, and heroin. These numbers are staggering and the types of drugs being abused by adolescents are becoming more dangerous. Once an adolescent begins the treacherous cycle of substance abuse there is a great risk for addiction. Addiction is a disease and can be hereditary, so if an adolescent comes from an addictive background they are more likely to have the disease of addiction. Children that have parents that abuse substances are at increased risk. Adolescent substance abuse causes changes in brain chemistry and over time can make it difficult for persons with a substance abuse problem to stop using drugs or alcohol despite wanting to. Treatment for addiction is available and can be as effective as treatments for other chronic medical conditions such as diabetes and hypertension if prescribed treatments are not interrupted. Adolescent substance abuse may slow down an adolescent's mental and emotional development by interfering with how they experience life around them. In addition, adolescent substance abuse accounts for serious consequences such as traffic accidents. Of all deaths related to traffic accidents nearly half are related to consumption of alcohol, and an estimated 18 % of drivers' age 16 to 20 will drive under the influence of alcohol. Another concern related to adolescent substance abuse is problems related to school. There is an increase in behavior problems along with a drop in academic skills. Also related to adolescent substance abuse are risky sexual behaviors. Adolescents that are abusing substances have a decrease in inhabitations and are at greater risk for sexually transmitted disease and pregnancy. Adolescents that abuse substances such as marijuana are more likely to exhibit delinquent behavior such as running away from home and stealing from family members. Tendencies toward crime are more prevalent in adolescents that abuse substances. Crime statistics for adolescent substance abusers show that adolescents age 12 to 16 who have ever used marijuana are more likely at some point to sell marijuana, carried or have a handgun, or be a gang member. Criminal activity only increases as the strength of the substance used increases. Physical and mental disorders are also higher among adolescents with substance abuse problems as well as the risk of addiction that carries on into adulthood. Adolescent substance abuse should be and is a concern for all of us as it can affect society as a whole. Substance abuse education at a young age is key and if you are aware of a young person that may be showing signs of substance abuse, early intervention can aid in recovery. |