Teenage drug abuse has become a significant problem. People who begin to abuse drugs during adolescence are more likely to become addicted than those who do during adulthood. The body is in a vital stage of development during the teenage years, and the brain is not yet fully mature – especially in the region of the brain associated with impulse control. This is partly why teens are more likely to experiment with drugs and other factors, including stress, peer pressure, and self-confidence issues.
Parents, caregivers, and schoolteachers are growing increasingly concerned with the number of adolescents abusing drugs is rapidly increasing. If you suspect your teen is using drugs or battling addiction, you might want to know the most commonly used drugs by teens to help them better.
Contact Adolescent Wellness Academy today to learn more about the best after-school recovery program in South Florida.
WHAT ARE THE MOST COMMONLY USED DRUGS BY TEENS?
There are several common teen drugs with different rates of use and effects.
Marijuana
Marijuana is easy for teens to obtain, which may be why it is so popular. Even though laws have passed legalizing recreational marijuana use in some states, marijuana use in adolescents has declined. Less than 6% of students in 12th grade use marijuana daily. Furthermore, data from the National Survey on Drug Use reveals that 0.7% of 8th graders use the substance daily, and 3.4% of 10th-grade students do. Some experts believe that because marijuana has been found to have a lower risk of use, some teens find it less interesting to try.
Painkillers and Prescription Drugs
Painkillers and prescription drug abuse are also common among teens, including narcotics such as OxyContin and Vicodin. The National Survey on Drug Use found that 3.4% of 12th graders used some type of prescription drugs in the past year. 2.3% of 12th graders, 2.2% of 10th grade students, and 0.8% of 8th graders said they used OxyContin in the last year, while 1.7% of 12th grade students, 1.1% of 10th graders, and 0.6% of 8th graders were found to have used Vicodin in the last 12 months. Many teens combine these drugs with alcohol or other drugs, such as marijuana.
Cocaine
Although cocaine is one of the most commonly used drugs by teens, teen cocaine use is not as common as other drugs, like marijuana. According to the National Survey on Drug Use, only about 2.3% of 12th-graders and 1.5% of 10th-grade students have used cocaine. Of students in 8th grade, 0.8% have reported using the substance in the past twelve months. It is suspected that cocaine use might be lower due to a limited availability compared to marijuana and some other drugs. Cocaine is often combined with alcohol, as teens have reported it allows them to drink more. It is easy to use at home and hide because it can be snorted rather than smoked.
Stimulants
Stimulant drugs are another type of the most commonly used drugs by teens. Stimulant drugs also require a prescription and are used to treat conditions like attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Adderall and Ritalin are two drugs that are commonly used by teens, with about 4.5% of students in 12th grade admitting to Adderall use in the past year without a prescription. Some experts have found teens to prefer stimulant drugs because it increases concentration and alertness, so they may be able to better boost academic performance.
Spice or K2
Spice and K2 are other names for synthetic marijuana. It is made up of herbs that are sprayed with cannabinoid chemicals. Nearly 3.5% of high school seniors used spice in the last year, while 1.6% of 8th graders reported using it. The substance was legal and available for purchase in convenience stores and online until 2011, when many of the ingredients used in it became illegal. Some producers have changed the formation of chemicals in spice, however, making it possible for teens to access the drug.
WHAT SHOULD I DO IF I THINK MY TEEN IS ON DRUGS?
If you suspect your teen is using drugs, it can be scary. Many parents become angry at their children for deciding to use drugs as a teen, but the best thing for you to do is try to remain calm and respond with love.
It is also essential for you to educate them about the dangers of drug abuse and addiction in addition to teaching them about substance abuse treatment and how important it is.
Also, know that you don’t need to help your teen on drugs alone. It can be overwhelming to help a teenager by yourself, so having a support system not only for your teen but for you can be helpful. You can find help through family, teachers or school counselors, and friends (including your child’s friends). Having a support system can make the challenges ahead seem more bearable.
Finally, contact a professional. Whether it be a family doctor or a behavioral health center specializing in teen substance use and addiction recovery, treatment from a professional is vital for a greater chance at recovery for your loved one.
HOW ADOLESCENT WELLNESS ACADEMY CAN HELP YOUR TEEN
At Adolescent Wellness Academy, a teen mental health treatment center located in South Florida, we understand the complexities and challenges of guiding our loved ones, especially adolescents, towards recovery from mental health challenges.
Recognizing the delicate nature of this journey, we are committed to offering compassionate, specialized care even in situations where individuals may be hesitant to seek help.
We are dedicated to providing a supportive environment that fosters healing and growth through our tailored programs:
- Day Therapeutic Program: A structured daytime treatment offering therapeutic support and education that integrates seamlessly with the adolescent’s daily life.
- After-School Program: An innovative approach that provides therapeutic activities and supports post-school hours, allowing teens to continue their education while receiving the care they need.
When you join our therapy or afterschool programs, you enter a caring and non-judgmental community. This support network involves teens, their families, peers, and our team.
Our team of clinicians, alumni, and other parents are here to offer invaluable assistance. Parent Support Groups (PSG) and assessments ensure that the support is tailored to each family’s needs. Contact us today for more information about teen mental health at 1-866-548-8677 or visit our locations in Miami-Dade and Broward.
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