How Does Teen Addiction Happen?
Written by Craig Rogers, Posted on
If your teen is exhibiting signs of using drugs or alcohol, you may be wondering, “How can I get my teen help?”
In order to get your teen the therapy they need, it is critical to have a firm grasp of how the brain is affected by teen addiction, as well as the science of addiction. Many teens try illegal and harmful substances – some only do it a couple times, some develop an addiction. The former is peer pressure or just plain curiosity. The latter is substance abuse and requires immediate attention.
What is the reason behind teens turning to drugs and alcohol? There are many reasons, all of them something that can be addressed with the proper therapy and guidance: Peer pressure, compensation for something else they feel is missing, or wanting to look “cool” and “mature.” In fact, in 2013, an estimated 21.6 million adolescents aged 12 or older were classified with substance dependence or abuse in the past year.
This breaks down to 8.2 percent of the population that is 12 years or older. Further studies have shown a direct correlation between teens with family members who have problems with substance abuse and teens who do. Furthermore, teens with a poor home life are at greater risk for substance abuse.
Be on the Lookout for Key Signs of Substance Abuse
There are several key signs to look for, should you suspect your teen may be involved in some type of substance abuse: Red eyes, fatigue, using a lot of eye drops, decreased in interest in school or hobbies, being socially withdrawn, having a new group of friends, stains on your teen’s hands, itchy nose or lots of sniffling, unusual smells on clothing, and drastic changes in mood or habits.
So, you have found one or more of these signs. What do you do now? It is critical that you get your teen help. It has been proven that 20% of kids who learn about the risks of drugs from their parents are far less likely to use harmful and/or illegal substances.
Therapy programs are available for troubled teens, including some with academic focus and clinical services. Trinity Teen Solutions is a certified treatment center for troubled teen girls that accommodates students with clinical services, strong academic focus for college preparation, and a well-known equine therapy program. The therapists will work closely with your teen and entirely family, ensuring lasting changes and growth for your teen.
We have advisers standing by right now to help parents with teens find the right facility to help their child successfully overcome the hindering behaviors and addictions that are destroying their lives.
Teen Drug Awareness Assessment
