Teen substance abuse

Throughout America, there has been an alarming increase in teenage drug use. It has become such a plague on society that it will lead to dangerous consequences in the future.  According to statistics and analysts, substance among youth ages 14 and 23 is the largest cause of deaths.  Drug abuse amongst teens is also a catalyst to teen pregnancy, assault, rapes, and even murders.  It is a growing concern amongst youth and parents and something that need to be proactively addressed. 

There are a few warning signs that can help parents identify a drug abuse problem in their children.  If there is a known family history of drug abuse and the youth has exhibited a lack of social skills, a simple beginning of experimentation can quickly lead to self-destructive abuse and dependency on their substance of choice.  Obviously there are youth who have no history of familial drug who have succumbed to substance abuse.  Although any prediction is almost impossible, teenagers with a family history of alcohol or drug abuse should especially abstain and refrain from experimenting.

Other warning signs of youth drug abuse include erratic behavior and distancing his or her self from family and old friends.  It is also important to notice any abnormal physical characteristics your child may be exhibiting.  Physical signs like red eyes, nagging cough, and changes in eating and sleeping habits should also serve as warning signals.

A youth's sense of experimentation and adventure can quickly spiral out of control with substance abuse.  Drug use of any sort can lead to poor performance in school and work, which will probably result in expulsion or firing. A child's drug abuse can devastate parents and other family members, and ruin family life. According to the National Survey of American Attitudes on Substance Abuse conducted by the National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse (CASA) at Columbia University, teens and their parents view drugs as their biggest concern.

The effects of different types of drugs on teenagers include irritability, insomnia, convulsions, anxiety, paranoia, violent behavior, memory loss, learning problems, increased heart rate, lethargy, panic attacks, symptoms of chronic bronchitis, daily coughs and phlegm, more frequent chest colds, muscle tension, teeth clenching, dehydration, hypothermia, brain damage, and death.

It is important to pay attention to any erratic behavior or physical warning signs your child is exhibiting.  Especially if there is a history of substance abuse in the family, you as a parent need to be cognizant of the lifestyle of your child.  By being proactive and stopping a problem before it even starts is the best method to ensuring the health and well-being of your child.