Parents across the globe find themselves up at night worrying about their teens using substances. If you’re one of those parents, during those restless hours, you may wonder, “Why are teens more at risk for addiction than adults?” Or, “Which drug is the most commonly used drug among teens?” And especially, “How can I help my teen avoid substance use disorder?”
Education is the first line of defense against the risks of substance abuse, and informing yourself and your teen about substance use in teens may decrease the likelihood that they will delve deep into substances.
FAQs About Adolescent Substance Abuse
What is the most common substance used by adolescents?
Alcohol technically falls under the umbrella of substances and it is by far the most widely used substance among teens. In the scope of drugs, marijuana holds the title for most abused by adolescents. Closely following are prescription medications and vaping products. In much lower usage, although far riskier, are narcotics such as cocaine, methamphetamines, heroin, and the like.
Why are teens more at risk for addiction than adults?
The human brain develops until around age 25. During the formative years, when the teen brain is developing (especially the prefrontal cortex), it is less able to control impulses, make good decisions, regulate emotions, and weigh consequences. Plus, the reward center of the brain is extremely active during the teenage years, leading to pleasure-seeking experiences like drug use.
How prevalent is substance use disorder in teens?
The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) has indicated that around 1 in 25 teens who are between the ages of 12 and 17 have had substance use disorder in the past year. This does not include teens who experiment with drugs, but rather focuses on those who develop misuse and/or addiction to illicit drugs and prescription meds.
Does My Teen Have a Problem with Drugs?
In Mississippi, SBIRT is a great support system to have in your pocket. We can help you identify if your teen has a problem and if so, we suggest the best treatment centers nearby for your child’s specific situation. The assessment is completely free and online, available with just the click of a mouse. After a few brief questions, SBIRT will inform you if there is cause for concern and list substance abuse treatment centers near your location to guide you to available help. Click now to learn more about SBIRT and discover how it can help your teen begin the journey to recovery.