Tuesday, October 11, 2022

Six Reasons Why Teens Do Drugs

 


The teenage years often come with insecurities, low self-esteem, and fear of not being accepted. Adolescents are constantly questioning themselves and their choices. At this age, peer acceptance becomes increasingly important. They may feel they have to do what they believe everyone else is doing or risk being left out. So in order to fit in, look “cool”, or join an older or more popular social circle, many teens may start buying and using drugs.

Studies such as the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, reported by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), indicate that early (age 12-14) to late (age 15-17) adolescence is a critical risk period for the initiation of substance use. Substance use may peak among young people aged 18-25 years. This is why experts recommend that parents begin talking with their children at an early age about the dangers of alcohol and drugs before they reach the critical risk period - keeping the conversation age-appropriate, being clear about rules and expectations, ask and listen to them, and most of all, continue the on-going conversation.  

Risk factors for drug use may include low grades/failure in school, having been a victim of bullying or cyberbullying, low self-esteem, permissive parenting, parent or older sibling who may use alcohol or drugs, or living in a community with a high tolerance for smoking, drinking, or drug use among youth. While it is not always possible to predict what makes a teen turn to drugs, these are some early warning indicators parents can watch out for, according to the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA).

The teen years are a time to explore and learn more about themselves as they approach adulthood, including experimenting and testing boundaries. The DEA emphasizes that the desire to do something new or risky is a normal part of teen development. However, even as they are growing up, teens still value the support and guidance of their parents, caregivers, and other responsible adults that play an influential role in their lives – even though it may not always seem that they do. 


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