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
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
