Drug use among teens is rising, with many young people turning to substances as a way to handle the pressures they face. Some are influenced by peer pressure, while others may be in environments where drug use is common and normalized. Engaging with drugs at an early age can have serious impacts, especially on the developing mind and body. This can also harm teens’ relationships with themselves and those around them. Often, teens do not fully grasp the risks associated with substance use, which leads to potentially dangerous situations.
Teen Drug Use Statistics
To understand the current wave of teen drug use, it’s essential to look at the rates of substance abuse among adolescents. Statistics show that around 50% of teens have tried drugs at least once. By the time teens reach their senior year of high school, more than 45% will have experimented with an illicit drug.
In 2023, the National Center for Drug Abuse Statistics reported that nearly 600,000 teens aged 12-17 had used a drug other than marijuana, and 83% had used marijuana within the last month when the study was conducted.
Teen overdose numbers are equally alarming. Over 11.2% of overdose deaths are among young adults aged 15 to 24, translating to about 5,000 adolescent and young adult overdose deaths per year. Additionally, around 788,000 teens meet the criteria for substance use disorder before they turn 18.
Teen drug use isn’t something to ignore. Among 8th graders, drug use has surged by 61% between 2016 and 2020, and this trend is only continuing. These figures don’t even include the high rate of alcohol abuse among teens, which is equally harmful to their developing brains.
The Impact of Drug Use on Teens
Drug use during adolescence can affect multiple areas of a teen’s life. It can disrupt normal brain development, leading to potential long-term cognitive and behavioral effects. Physical health can also be impacted. Some signs of teen drug use may include:
- Unusual behavior
- Irritability or mood swings
- Physical changes, like weight loss
- Dental issues
- Reduced brain function
- Co-occurring mental health issues
- Secretive actions
- Social withdrawal
- Falling behind in school
Recognizing these signs early can make a difference. Quick intervention can help protect young people from long-term harm and support their healthy development.
Addressing Teen Drug Use
Early intervention is key to combating teen drug use. At Sobriety Options, our partner Solution Based Treatment offers a structured outpatient program focused on mental health treatment for teens, addressing the root causes of substance use disorders. Through various therapeutic methods and medication management, our program supports teens as they work toward stability. Our program operates on weekday evenings, allowing teens to continue living at home and participating in school and community activities during treatment. Here, they learn healthier coping skills and build confidence to say no to drugs.
If your teen shows signs of substance use, don’t wait until it escalates. Seek support to help them recover fully and reclaim a healthy, fulfilling life. Contact Sobriety Options today to learn more about how we can help.
About Sobriety Options
Sobriety Options is open 24/7 to provide support and care for those seeking substance abuse or mental health treatment. A branch of Sobriety Options, we serve as a central admissions office for seven different branches throughout Southern California. Our team is able to help you find the best sober living option for yourself or your loved one to help them get the care they need. For more information visit our website at sobrietyoptions.com or give us a call at (855) 485-0071.
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