Drug Abuse In TeensDrug abuse in teens is a serious issue. The type of drug abuse in teens has shifted to more harmful and addictive drugs at a younger age. When drug abuse in teens occurs it can lead to drug addiction and serious consequences in the way a young persons brain functions. The way that some drugs work is they have a similar size and shape as the brains natural neurotransmitters. In the right dose or amount, these drugs attach themselves to receptors and this starts an unnatural chain reaction of electrical charges. The feeling of pleasure that comes from drug abuse is because the brain releases large amounts of dopamine. Drug abuse in teens starts changing brain function right away as a result of the unnatural flood of dopamine. When there are large amounts of dopamine, for example, neurons begin to reduce the number of dopamine receptors so that the brain is receiving less intense electrical reactions. When this happens there is less dopamine in the brain. In order to still get the same effect from the drug that one is using, the dose or amount must be increased. This in turn shuts down more receptors and the vicious cycle of addiction occurs. Some drugs are also toxic and this will actually kill some brain cells. Some teens believe that by using a drug only once that they will not fall into the drug abuse cycle. There is no evidence to show, however, how many times a teen can use a drug without changing his or her brain and falling prey to the cycle of addiction. Drug abuse in teens may be partly due to genetic makeup. If teens come from family background they are more likely to have addiction problems themselves. When teen drug abuse and addiction occur the brain has cravings for the substance that is causing the pleasurable feelings. Cravings are increased by the fact that the brain is shutting down neuro receptors. When the drug is not supplied, dopamine levels in the drug abuser's brain are low. The will have feelings of depression and seek out the drug to raise the dopamine levels again. Drug abuse in teens should be a concern to all of us. When a teen abuses drugs, they can become addicted and the brain of an addict is altered. Drug abuse in teens and addiction can lead to long-term changes in the brain and these are the brains of our future. If you or someone you know is having a problem with drugs, seek professional help and drug rehabilitation. Drug abuse in teens is a disease and can be controlled with the proper intervention. |