Why teens abuse drugs

Various factors can contribute to teen drug abuse, from insecurity to a desire for social acceptance. Teens often feel indestructible and might not consider the consequences of their actions, leading them to take dangerous risks — such as abusing legal or illegal drugs.

Common risk factors for teen drug abuse include:

• A family history of substance abuse
• A mental or behavioral health condition, such as depression, anxiety or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
• Impulsive behavior
• A history of traumatic events, such as experiencing a car accident or being a victim of abuse
• Low self-esteem or feelings of social rejection