Stopping Adolescent Addiction

During adolescence the risk for substance abuse can be higher. Studies show that 9 out of 10 adults with an addiction began in their teen years. According to the Center of Addiction, teens that start abusing substances before turning 15 are almost 7 times more likely to advance in their addiction when compared to those that begin using when they are 21 years old or older.

Most people don’t realize that their exposure to drugs during adolescence could have a huge effect on their lives. With frequent use, development can be impacted, impacting or damaging one’s brain or other vital organs. Addiction can be life long, making early intervention imperative.

Curiosity and Experimentation Among Teenagers

Approximately half of new substance abusers are under 18 years of age, this statistic is startling. Why do teenagers use alcohol, drugs, nicotine, cannabis, etc.? The most common reasons reported are:

  • Relieving everyday stress and relax.
  • Numbing painful emotions.
  • To be able to “fit in” (conform and be accepted).
  • A means of “escape”.
  • In opposition or a way to “rebel”.
  • Interest or desire to experiment.

One of the biggest reasons as to why teenagers use drugs is because of their “keen interest and desire to experiment,” says the Addiction Center. Despite being warned of the dangers of drug use, many teens will need to learn valuable lessons through first-hand experience. Teenage rebellion may also contribute to substance abuse. Adolescents that grew up with low self-esteem are also more likely to experiment with substances.

Most individuals that become addicted to substances never set out to form an addiction. Substance abuse can start as a means to experiment, or even as a means of self-medicating, and then use slowly spirals into addiction.

Revealing Signs of Substance Abuse

Adolescence can be an exciting time in life. This stage of development can be filled with many “firsts”- first loves, first dates, and unfortunately first heartaches and perhaps first failures. These more negative firsts can lead to first alcoholic drinks, first cigarettes, or maybe for some, their first “high.” During adolescence, it is common for adolescents to feel restricted by the rules and limitations that adults impose. This can also be a difficult time for you, especially if your teen is emotionally distressed, defiant or is looking for independence while actively seeking their identity.

No matter the reason as to how they have gotten into a serious habit of using an addictive substance, the bottom line is that addiction is a serious concern. You can only help them if you know what is going on. Regrettably, teenagers often do not show any signs that they are abusing a substance. It can be important to recognize the signs of substance abuse.

There are signs and symptoms that you can look for. The following list is from the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence:

Physical signs of drug abuse:

  • Bloodshot eyes
  • Frequent nosebleeds (indicative of snorting drugs such as cocaine or methamphetamines)
  • Changes in appetite or sleep patterns
  • Sudden weight gain or loss
  • Seizures
  • Deterioration of physical appearance
  • Injuries your teen can’t or won’t tell you about
  • Unusual smells on breath, body or clothes
  • Shakes or tremors
  • Incoherent or slurred speech
  • Impaired coordination

Behavioral signs of drug abuse:

  • Declining grades, skipping class or trouble at school
  • Poor attendance and performance at work
  • Loss of interest in extracurricular activities
  • Complaints from teachers or supervisors
  • Borrowing or stealing money
  • Missing valuables or prescription drugs
  • Isolation, withdrawing, silence or secretive behavior
  • Conflict with other family members
  • Drug-related music, posters or clothing
  • Demanding more privacy, locking doors or avoiding eye-contact
  • Changing friends, relationships, hang-out spots and hobbies
  • Increased use of incense or perfume
  • Increased use of eye drops (to hide bloodshot eyes or dilated pupils)

Emotional signs of drug abuse:

  • Sudden change in personality or attitude
  • Mood swings, irritability, angry outbursts or laughing at nothing
  • Unusual hyperactivity or agitation
  • Lack of motivation and inability to focus
  • Appearing fearful, withdrawn, anxious or paranoid for no reason

Spotting the signs of substance abuse early can improve the chances of recovery. This may not be an easy task, considering that they are going through a lot of change. Take note that because your child is going through adolescence, it is possible that some signs are not genuinely because of drugs. Keep talking and stay connected with your teen. Therapy can be helpful in figuring out what is truly going on.

Why Don’t They Just Quit?

It isn’t easy to stop using drugs, alcohol, and nicotine once one has become addicted. Drugs can imitate brain chemicals called neurotransmitters, fooling the brain receptors, so that they bind to the neurons and stimulate them. These ‘copycats’ can perform like the real thing, but imperfectly. Prolonged addiction may also increase a user’s tolerance, so that they must use more of the addictive substance to have the same level of ‘high.’

These addictive substances can also result in the production of large amounts of dopamine. Dopamine is usually released when a person is happy. With the euphoric feeling that the addictive substance can generate, the brain starts craving it, especially with frequent use, developing addiction in the process. The human brain is wired to repeat activities that cause you to feel good, hence creating an addiction or dependence on the substance.

Addiction is a medical condition, not a choice. Those with substance use disorders often want to stop using, though don’t know how. Changes to body chemistry can make abstinence difficult, proper intervention is needed to truly help your teen.

Nipping Your Teen’s Addiction ‘In the Bud’

Recovery from addiction can be difficult but it is not impossible. Help is available. Early intervention can be key in treating your teen’s substance use disorder. Finding a therapist who is trained in addiction and is the right fit for you and your family can be imperative. Treatment can start with a proper assessment of symptoms and treatment tailored to meet your child’s unique needs.

If your child is already abusing a substance, there are other risky behaviors that they may embrace or experiment with. CCS – Fuquay-Varina (N. Main St.), NC contracts with independent therapists who can help. Call today to schedule your first appointment.

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