Substance Abuse Among Teens

By: Doug Hall, RN, BSN, Nurse Director - Adolescent Unit

Not surprisingly, there are some adolescents that are at a higher risk for chemical dependency then others. These at-risk teens tend share several common characteristics. They are often children of substance abusers, adolescents with mental health issues, depressed or suicidal teens, or victims of physical, psychological or sexual abuse. Cultural or social norms can also influence teens to experiment and/or overuse drugs and alcohol.

Substance abuse treatment programs most commonly vary based on their length of stay.  Many inpatient programs are long term to help manage treatment and help with the detoxification process. Long term treatment programs typically provide group meetings, psychosocial support systems and drug free supervision with tests. Family support is absolutely key to the success of a patient that is struggling with a chemical dependency. Outpatient programs also feature groups, friend/family support and individual psychotherapy.

Becoming involved with chemicals can only complicate the typical teen’s already pressure filled life. Education must be done in the schools as well as at home to help teens understand the truly profound consequences of substance abuse. We encourage frank conversation with teens about the potential long-term physical and mental health risks that they take when getting involved in drug use and abuse.   

Substances that teens often abuse:

Alcohol

Marijuana

Tobacco

Inhalants

Methamphetamine

Hallucinogens

Opiates

Steroids

Common signs and symptoms of substance abuse:

Getting high or intoxicated frequently

Lying about how much you are using

Avoiding family and friends

Missing work

Depressed or suicidal feelings

Trouble with the law