2. Drug abuse
Drug abuse in teens is often accompanied by mental health problems. Teens may use drugs to escape pain, fit in with their peers, or because they think it will make them feel better. Drugs are dangerous to adolescents because they can interfere with their short-term memory, learning, psychomotor skills, motivation and psychosexual/emotional development.
Teen drug abuse causes high social and economic costs, including loss of future productivity, distress for families, increased medical and other treatment costs, and crime (Bureau of Justice Statistics, 1992). Families affected by alcohol or drugs can also experience family distancing, alienation, and stigmatization.
There are many treatment options for substance abuse. These include residential treatment centers and partial hospitalization programs that last several hours a day on multiple days of the week.
3. Alcoholism
Alcoholism, also known as alcohol use disorder, is a mental health condition that involves compulsive alcohol consumption and impaired control. It is considered an addiction and a disease by most, but not all, clinicians.
There are three stages of alcoholism. In stage 1, people drink to get the happy feeling it produces; they don’t think about the negative effects.
In phase 2, people begin to feel uncomfortable, sad or depressed without drinking, and they start using more and more to avoid the feelings. In phase 3, they drink even when they know it is causing problems. They spend a lot of time getting and drinking alcohol, and they neglect important work, family or social responsibilities because of drinking. They have repeated unsuccessful attempts to cut back or stop their drinking.
5. Drug addiction
Drug addiction occurs when people start to take drugs on a regular basis despite problems caused by the drug use. Addiction can affect all parts of the body and cause serious health issues, such as heart attacks and strokes. Addiction can also cause mental and emotional problems.
People can develop drug addictions from taking prescription drugs, alcohol and illegal substances. They can also become addicted to using some types of legal medications, such as nicotine patches or antidepressants.
Teens can be more likely to become addicted to drugs when they are young because the part of the brain that helps regulate emotions and make good decisions is still maturing. They may also be at risk if they hang around with friends who use drugs and want to try them. Treatment for drug addiction involves medication and counseling.