Explained: Why Teenagers Experiment with Alcohol and Drugs

1. Explained: Why Teenagers Experiment with Alcohol and Drugs Explained: Why Teenagers Experiment with Alcohol and Drugs The life of a teen is by no means an easy one. Considered to be the most awkward growth stage of one’s life, teenage years are associated with rapid physical development and deep emotional changes that pose significant challenges for the teens and the families. Teen years are not only about exploring and learning more about oneself, it is about trying something new or risky. As the brain is still in a developing stage, early adolescence is marked with risk-taking behaviors like smoking, abusing drugs and alcohol or getting involved in unprotected sex. So why do teenagers abuse drugs and/or alcohol? It is not just one reason, but a combination of various reasons that are mostly responsible for misuse and abuse of drugs and/or alcohol among teens. Here are some of the core issues behind a teen getting inclined toward drug and alcohol use. Urge to try something new: The desire to try something new often becomes even stronger at puberty. A natural part of life, many teens begin experimenting with drugs and/or alcohol simply out of curiosity. With more freedom to try new things, curiosity can be a powerful motivator for a teen to experiment. The desire to understand the rationale that “makes others experiment with drugs” can be a compelling reason to push teens toward drugs/and or alcohol. To have fun: Considered to be the most common factor behind teen drug abuse, boredom often makes teens explore drugs and alcohol as an effective pastime. Teens who cannot tolerate being alone, crave excitement or have trouble keeping themselves occupied usually use drugs and/or alcohol to fill the internal void they feel. In addition, abusing these substances provides them with a common ground for interacting with like-minded teens. Route to escape: A time of self-exploration, teen years can be confusing and complicated. Many teens have to cope with problems related to family, school, finance and society. And for those who lack effective coping strategies, drugs and/or www.teenaddictionrehabcenters.com

2. alcohol use provides a short-term solution which, if left ignored, can develop into a long-term problem. An extreme form of escapism, many teens often turn to drugs and/or alcohol to escape problems at home or at school. Peer pressure: Considered to be a powerful influence in one’s life, peer pressure is especially strong during adolescence. Peer pressure can influence a teens’ choice about a lot of things and can cause them to engage in risky behaviors. A teen is more likely to succumb to peer pressure if he/she feels sad, guilty, anxious, uncool or simply disappointed with himself/herself. Need to bond and make friends: A desire to be accepted can be no different for a teenager than an adult. It is considered to be a pivotal time in one’s life, when the desire to be accepted and make friends force many teens toward alcohol and/or drugs. Different from peer pressure, teens often turn to drugs and/or alcohol to come out of one’s shell and feel more confident. While the addictive substance might fulfill one’s short-term goal, it often brings one closer to groups using these substances. Owing to their developing brain and the on-going growth process, teenagers are especially vulnerable to the dangers of drug abuse. Teens may use a substance for a variety of reasons. No matter what the reason, understanding the reasons behind teen drug and/or alcohol addiction is the first step in dealing with teen alcohol and/or drug abuse. Reaching out In addition to the possibility of becoming addicted, adolescents who use substances are more susceptible to injuries, accidents, mental and physical diseases, sexual assaults and sexually transmitted diseases. However, owing to secrecy and denial, teens may not seek treatment for substance addiction on their own. If you have a teen who may be addicted to drugs and/or alcohol, don’t hesitate to call at our 24/7 addiction treatment helpline at (866) 939-1956 for any treatment-related queries. Representatives at the Teen Addiction Rehab Services can help you or your loved one find the finest treatment programs and help you locate the best addiction treatment rehab center, near you. www.teenaddictionrehabcenters.com