Articles
Teen drug use: Help your teen avoid drugs and alcohol.
Why teens abuse drugs
Talking about teen drug abuse
Why teens use or misuse drugs
Consequences of teen drug abuse
Recognizing the warning signs of teen drug abuse
Seeking help for teen drug abuse
Content
The developing brain
Reasons for using drugs and alcohol
Risks of using drugs and alcohol
Risk of substance abuse disorders
Health effects of drugs
Talking about teen drug use
Other preventive strategies
Recognizing the warning signs of teen drug or alcohol use
Seeking help for teen drug use
Talking about teen drug abuse
Why teens use or misuse drugs
Consequences of teen drug abuse
Recognizing the warning signs of teen drug abuse
Seeking help for teen drug abuse
Content
The developing brain
Reasons for using drugs and alcohol
Risks of using drugs and alcohol
Risk of substance abuse disorders
Health effects of drugs
Talking about teen drug use
Other preventive strategies
Recognizing the warning signs of teen drug or alcohol use
Seeking help for teen drug use
The developing brain
The brain is still developing during the teenage years and into the mid-20s. Different regions of the brain develop at different rates. And like all growth, it happens at different rates among individuals.
The parts of the brain that develop first control physical activity, emotions and motivation. The part of the brain responsible for controlling impulses and making good judgments develops later.
As a result, it is typical for teens to be driven by emotions, curiosity and risks. Teens are often open to new experiences. These motivations have positive effects on personal and social development. But they also may make it hard for teens to make sound decisions about risky behaviors or their outcomes.
