Teen Drug Abuse and Its Impact
Drug abuse is found in every socioeconomic group and people from all walks of life. It devastates the lives of users, their families, and the community at large. While the ravages of substance abuse are felt by all groups of people, the impact it has on teens is especially devastating. No matter how, when, or why teens use substances, it can severely impact their physical and mental health now and in the long run.
This article will focus on teen drug abuse and its impacts on their lives. This article will also focus on the reasons why teens use or misuse drugs and the importance of finding teen addiction treatment. If you suspect your teenager is struggling with drug abuse, now is the time to act. Adolescent Wellness Academy (AWA) offers a unique and dynamic afterschool outpatient program for teens dealing with substance abuse and mental illness. Our evidence-based programs and expert care give your teen the tools and confidence they need to become healthy and happy.
Call AWA today to learn more about our teen treatment program in South Florida.
The Scope of Teen Drug Abuse
Teen drug abuse is a major health and social issue in the United States. The following statistics paint both a shocking and sobering picture and how widespread the problem is throughout the country:
- 2.08 million or 8.33% of 12- to 17-year-olds nationwide report using drugs in the last month
- 591,000 teenagers aged 12- to 17-year-old used an illicit drug other than marijuana in the last month
- 8.7% of 8th graders have used illicit drugs in the last month
- 21.3% of 8th graders have tried illicit drugs at least once
- 11.89 million 18- to 25-year-olds used drugs in the last month.
- 11.2% of overdose deaths are aged 15 to 24 years
Drug abuse in teens is especially dangerous given the back they experience explosive growth in both the body and brain. If teens abuse drugs and alcohol during this crucial period of growth, it will significantly arrest development and cause a wide array of developmental and cognitive issues that can persist well into adulthood.
What Are the Signs of Teen Drug Abuse?
Identifying the signs of drug abuse in teens can be very difficult. Teens who use substances are very secretive and will go to great lengths to hide their use from parents and others. In some cases, the signs of abuse can mirror other physical and mental ailments that make it hard to spot substance abuse. As a parent, you must be vigilant in spotting the signs of abuse as early as possible. Early detection allows you to get your son or daughter into teen drug and alcohol rehab. The common physical signs of teen substance abuse include the following:
- Poor hygiene
- Bloodshot eyes
- Frequent runny nose or nosebleeds
- Changes in mood or attitude
- Difficulty staying focused
- Small track marks on arms or legs
- Extremely tired or extremely hyperactive
- Sudden weight gain or weight loss
Behavioral signs of drug abuse in teens include:
- Acting irresponsibly and engaging in high-risk behavior
- Frequently asking for money
- Stealing
- Isolating from family and friends
- Making excuses or lying about their behavior
- Missing school or work
- Losing interest in hobbies or activities
- Abandoning long-time friends
The Importance of Teen Addiction Treatment
If your teenager is dealing with a substance abuse issue, you must find professional treatment as soon as possible. To give your child the best chance at long-term recovery, you must find a treatment facility with programs and services specifically designed for teenagers. The staff at teen drug and alcohol rehabs must have years of proven experience in working with the teenage population. The best teen drug and alcohol rehab centers should feature the following components:
- Individual, group, and family therapy
- 12-step group support
- Life and coping skills development and training
- Medication management (if necessary)
- Aftercare support
Adolescent Wellness Academy Can Help Your Teen Recover
If your teen is fighting a losing battle with substance abuse, you can feel a tremendous sense of helplessness. You may have tried in the past to get your teen help but were unsuccessful in getting your teenager sober. You may feel that help is out of reach, but Adolescent Wellness Academy is there for you and your teen. Our afterschool outpatient programs feature evidence-based programs and services customized to your teen’s specific needs.
No matter the severity of your teen’s addiction, our experienced and compassionate team of professionals will work with you and your teen to build the tools and support needed to empower and motivate them to work towards their best life. Call Adolescent Wellness Academy today and help your teen find the road to recovery.
