Adolescence is a time of experimentation. This is the period when parents are worried about their children trying new things such as drugs and alcohol. Drug and Alcohol Abuse in teenagers is a concern.
As stats reveal, a significant percentage of teenagers abuse drugs and alcohol at one time or another.
Whether we talk of binge drinking or consuming ecstasy pills, many teenagers end up experimenting with drugs and alcohol. Teenagers who abuse drugs end up putting their health and safety at risk. As a parent, it’s natural for you to be concerned about the safety and well-being of your child.
Why teens abuse drugs?
Impulsive behavior and peer pressure are two of the major factors that make teenagers prone to drug and alcohol abuse. Many teenagers consume alcohol and drugs out of the desire to fit in among their friends. Insecurity, low self-esteem, problems in academics and poor social skills may also drive teenagers to alcohol and drugs. A family history and substance abuse and poor parenting are also the possible causes of drug and alcohol abuse.
Effects of Teen Drug Abuse
Drug and alcohol abuse can cause serious health problems in teenagers. In addition to short term health effects such as:
- insomnia
- lack of concentration
- trembling of hands
- anxiety
There are also many long term negative health effects of drug and alcohol consumption. Drug and alcohol abuse has also been associated with uninhabited sexual activity. This in turn, increases the chances of indulging in unsafe sex which may lead to unplanned pregnancy and STDs. Drinking and driving is another common problem associated with drug and alcohol consumption. Drunken driving jeopardizes the safety and well-being of the person and also poses a serious law and order problem
How to Deal with Teen Drug Abuse?
Dealing with a teenager who is addicted to drugs and alcohol may prove to be quite difficult. First and foremost, it is important for parents to educate their children about the harmful effects of drug and alcohol consumption. It is important to be open and communicative with your children in this regard. Parental support plays an important role when it comes to helping children deal with peer pressure and ward off insecurities. It is also important not to criticize and denounce teenagers for their behavior.
