In the United States there is a significant problem with teens abusing drugs and alcohol. By the time teenagers start high school a large percentage of them have already experimented with some form of drugs or alcohol. Alcohol is the most widely abused drug among teens, but alcohol abuse in teens may also lead to the use of illegal drugs such as marijuana, cocaine or heroin. The abuse of drugs and alcohol by teens can have adverse effects on their health, relationships, and their futures.
How can I tell if my teen is using drugs or alcohol?
There are many warning signs that a teen is using drugs or alcohol. Every individual is different so they may not exhibit all of these warning signs, but if they abusing drugs or alcohol it is likely that they show some of these signs. Typical warning signs are mood swings, excessive drowsiness, lying, breaking curfew, skipping school, change in friends, excessive secrecy, and having drug or alcohol paraphernalia. If your teen is abusing drugs or alcohol or you suspect that they are it is important to seek help for your teen. Drug and alcohol abuse in teens can lead to a life long addiction to drugs and alcohol if it is not acknowledged and treated.
The risks of teenage drug and alcohol abuse
Drug and alcohol abuse can affect a person’s entire life. Teens abusing drugs and alcohol are likely to see negative effects on their academic career, home life, relationships, health and their overall well being. Drug and alcohol abuse can also put a teen in physical danger and even prove to be fatal. Drugs and Alcohol are involved in nearly half of all the accidents that result in teen fatalities.
Getting help for teens abusing drugs and alcohol
It is important to seek help for teens if think they are abusing drugs and alcohol and the sooner the problem is addressed the better. Without treatment it is possible that they will develop a lifelong addiction to drugs or worse alcohol or drug abuse will lead to fatality. Treatment centers in Orlando, Florida can provide professional help and expert advice on how to treat your teens drug and alcohol abuse.
