Posted March 09, 2023 by Julie Sich, MS ATC, Director of Quality Improvement and Provider Engagement
By the time they reach their senior year, nearly 70 percent of high schoolers will have tried alcohol, 50 percent will have taken an illegal drug and more than 20 percent will have used a prescription drug inappropriately, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse.
These statistics are especially alarming because a child’s brain continues to develop and grow until about age 25. Substance use can affect brain growth and development. Kids who begin substance use in their early to mid-teens are more likely to develop a substance use disorder than those who start drinking at age 21 or older.
When kids are under the influence of drugs (including alcohol) their risk for poor decision making, serious injury or even death increases.
But, kids don’t always have all the facts when it comes to drugs. In fact, a recent survey by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration found:
SummaCare hopes to inspire the prevention of youth drug use and addiction through proper dialogue. If parents don’t discuss the risks of drug use, kids might not see any harm in experimenting. Having a conversation allows parents to set clear rules about expected behaviors regarding alcohol and other drugs.
Get the Facts on Drug Use in Young Adults
More findings from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s recent survey found:
The National Institute on Drug Abuse’s recent survey found that in the last year:
Signs Your Teen May Be Using Drugs or Alcohol
If you notice abrupt changes in your teen’s behavior, it could be a sign of drug or alcohol use. Look for these warning signs:
Making Prevention a Priority: How Parents Can Help
While there is no surefire way to prevent substance use in teens, an open, honest and trusting relationship is essential to minimizing the risk. Parents are the most influential individuals in a child’s life. The key is to start the conversation early and never stop.
Here are ways to encourage a conversation without lecturing:
Parents have a significant influence in teens’ decisions to experiment with alcohol and other drugs. When parents create supportive and nurturing environments, kids make better decisions.
In addition, a yearly physical with a trusted healthcare provider is an important opportunity to discuss substance use and identify any concerns.