PIN FOR LATER

1. Youth substance users are more likely to become adult substance abusers.

Far too often youth that use substances will become adults who abuse substances. But it is possible to break free from teen addiction with the right support system. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), 74 percent of those enrolled in treatment centers began using drugs or alcohol as a teenager, younger than 17. They also found that those who began using drugs or alcohol before the age of 11 were more likely to have multiple addictions when compared to those who didn’t use substances until they were 25 years old or older.

2. Almost half of college students use illicit drugs.

The numbers are pretty close for both women and men–45 percent of men and 42 percent of women on college campuses have used an illegal drug. The main reasons for this illicit drug use are peer pressure, self-medication, academic performance pressure, anxiety, depression, and media influence. Unfortunately, experimentation has the propensity to move into full-blown addiction. That’s why it is so important to address drug and alcohol use, abuse, and experimentation early.

3. Depression and substance abuse have a direct link.

The link between substance abuse and depression is well documented in adults, and the same link exists in teens. Mental health plays a big role in substance abuse. And those who are experiencing emotional vulnerability are more likely to experiment with drugs early in adolescence. When children and teens learn how to regulate and navigate their emotions coupled with dealing with instances of teen depression, they may be less likely to try drugs and alcohol at young ages.

4. Teens do not understand the risks of regular marijuana smoking.

Most young people have no concept of their mortality or of their still-developing brains and bodies. The risk of frequent and regular marijuana use can be extremely problematic in teens. There are short and long-term effects that include:

• Impaired memory.
• Mood changes.
• Hallucinations and paranoia.
• Respiratory issues.
• Cognitive impairment.
• Decreased IQ.

5. Alcohol is abused most often by teens.

Alcohol might be one of the easiest substances for teens to abuse, as it is usually easily accessible in most homes. A small percentage of 8th graders have been drunk before, and more than 60 percent of high school students have consumed alcohol by the time they’ve finished school. These are some sobering stats, but knowing the reality is a big part of finding solutions.

6. Binge drinking is a major problem among college students.

Binge drinking is consuming a lot of alcohol in a relatively short period of time. This is a major problem among college students. Binge drinking can lead to alcohol poisoning, serious injury, drunk driving, unprotected sex, violence, and damage to the liver and brain.

7. Teen substance use can be deadly.

Overdosing can be fatal, and teens rarely think things through before making decisions. Their immaturity and impulsivity can sometimes turn deadly. Driving while intoxicated is a serious problem among teens and can have life changing outcomes.

With all of these alarming facts to ponder, it is becoming more apparent that there is a lot of work to be done to help keep the youth from making harmful decisions. It’s important that authority figures communicate with and educate teens so that they are better equipped to navigate life in a healthy manner.