Understanding Teenage Substance Use Disorder

As any parent knows, raising a teenager can be a challenging experience. They are at a point in their lives where they are exploring their independence and trying to figure out who they are. As a result, they may be more likely to take risks, including trying substances like alcohol, marijuana, tobacco, and other drugs.

While experimenting with substances is a normal part of teenage development, it can also lead to serious problems, such as substance use disorder (SUD). Parents need to talk to their teen's pediatrician about screening for substance use. Screening can help identify teenage SUD early on when it's easier to treat.

TEENS ARE PRIMED FOR SUBSTANCE USE DISORDER

The teenage years are often associated with impulsive and risky behavior. This is partly because the brain area responsible for reasoning–the pre-frontal cortex–is less active during young adulthood. The under-development of the pre-frontal cortex in teens results in poorer decision-making skills. As a result, teenagers are more likely to take risks, including engaging in substance abuse.

Teenagers are also more likely to experiment with drugs and alcohol due to peer pressure and a desire to fit in. Unfortunately, these teenage substance abuse behaviors can lead to addiction and other serious problems later in life.?

Fortunately, SUD treatment and support options are available to help teens get their lives back on track. Next Level Recovery Associates can help with early intervention, which can effectively prevent a full-blown SUD.

CONSEQUENCES OF TEEN SUBSTANCE ABUSE

Teenage SUD is a real and growing problem. Substance abuse can lead to several harmful effects on adolescent development, including brain damage and stunted growth. In addition, teenage substance use often leads to other risky behaviors such as unprotected sex and dangerous driving.?

Not only that, but teenage substance abuse can also lead to health problems later in life, such as heart disease, high blood pressure, and sleep disorders. Finally, the earlier teens start using substances, the greater their chances of continuing to use substances and developing SUD later in life. When teenage substance use spirals into teenage SUD, it can have devastating consequences. That's why it's so important to be aware of adolescent substance use risks and take steps to prevent them.

BEHAVIORAL WARNING SIGNS?

Your teen's mood swings can often be attributed to the racing and changing hormones that come with adolescence. For the most part, teen mood swings are normal. However, it is essential to be aware of the behavioral and physical signs that your teen may have a problem.

Behavioral signs of drug use or substance abuse include:

• Avoiding eye contact
• Ignoring or breaking curfew
• Acting irresponsibly
• Frequently asking for money
• Stealing
• Locking bedroom doors
• Making secretive calls
• Isolating from others/damaging relationships with family or friends
• Making excuses (or outright lying)
• Withdrawing from classroom participation/slipping in grades
• Resisting discipline or feedback
• Missing school or work
• Losing interest in hobbies or activities
• Abandoning long-time friends

PHYSICAL SIGNS OF SUBSTANCE ABUSE

• Along with behavioral signs of drug and alcohol use, parents should be on the lookout for physical changes as well. The following signs may indicate a problem:
• Poor hygiene/change in appearance
• Glazed or bloodshot eyes
• Frequent runny nose or nosebleeds
• Paranoia, irritability, anxiety, fidgeting
• Changes in mood or attitude
• Difficulty staying on task/staying focused
• Small track marks on arms or legs (wears long sleeves even in warm weather)
• Pupils larger or smaller than usual
• Cold, sweaty palms or shaking hands
• Sores on mouth
• Headaches
• Puffy, swollen face
• Extremely tired or extremely hyperactive
• Rapid weight gain or loss
• These signs could indicate that your teen is struggling with SUD. If you're concerned that your teenager may be using drugs or alcohol, don't hesitate to reach out for help. Many resources are available to families dealing with teenage SUD, and getting support early can make a big difference.

STEPS TO TAKE

As parents, there are things you can do to stop the progression of substance abuse. You can help reduce the risk of your teenager developing SUD by being clear about your expectations and setting a good example.

You can also encourage your teenager to develop positive relationships with their friends and peers. Teens who have friends who misuse substances are more likely to do so themselves. Help your teen find friends who share their interests and values and who will support them in making healthy choices.

Encouraging your teenager to be involved in activities they enjoy can also help reduce the risk of substance abuse. When teens are engaged in activities they care about, they are less likely to turn to drugs or alcohol to cope with stress or boredom. So help your teen find an activity or hobby that they can really sink their teeth into, and make sure they have regular opportunities to participate.

TREATMENT OPTIONS

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), today's teens are more likely to abuse drugs than any other age group. If you think your child may be using drugs, don't wait to get help. The sooner you seek SUD support for your teen, the better.

There are many teenage SUD treatment options available. While each child is different, successful adolescent SUD treatment typically includes a combination of individual therapy, family counseling, and support groups.?

Next Level Recovery Associates can help you navigate the process of getting help for your teen. With the help of our substance abuse experts, you can develop a plan that meets your child's specific needs.

Recovery from mental health and substance use disorders can be a long and difficult process that often requires making significant changes to one's lifestyle. Anyone who has gone through recovery knows that sustaining change can be a challenge. There are often setbacks and relapses, and it can be easy to become discouraged. One of the key things that can help support and maintain change is finding passion in your recovery. This can involve setting goals and working toward them, daily physical activity, getting involved in supportive community groups, or finding a creative outlet that brings joy. Whatever it looks like, having a reason to keep going can make all the difference when the road gets rough. If you or someone you love is struggling to find motivation in their recovery journey, Next Level Recovery Associates can help identify powerful tools for change.

Contact us at [email protected].