Table of ContentsIntroductionTypes of Drugs Used by AdolescentsAlcohol AbuseTeen Marijuana UsePrescription Drug AbuseEffects of Drug and Alcohol Abuse on AdolescentsEffects on Physical HealthMental Health EffectsPreventive MeasuresConclusionIntroductionDid you know that approximately 17% of American high school students engage in behaviors involving alcohol, prescription drug abuse, smoking, or illicit drugs? This statistic represents a staggering 55 million underage teens exposed to substances like alcohol, marijuana, and prescription drugs. Additionally, the number of young people using alcohol and drugs is increasing at an alarming rate. The use of these substances among adolescents can have serious consequences, ranging from deterioration of mental and physical health to life-threatening consequences, which are discussed in this essay. There are, however, strategies to prevent substance abuse among teens, such as setting positive examples at home, monitoring prescription drug use, and establishing clear rules and expectations. Although substance abuse poses significant challenges to adolescents, with proper support and intervention, they can overcome these problems. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get the original essay Types of Drugs Used by Adolescents Alcohol Abuse Adolescent alcohol and drug abuse presents significant challenges in today's society, with the problem steadily worsening over time . Alcohol use is of particular concern among adolescents, as studies indicate that people who begin drinking during adolescence, especially in large quantities, are at higher risk of developing alcohol dependence later in life. life. Recent data from a 2017 study revealed alarming trends, with nearly 20% of 10th graders and about 30% of 12th graders reporting drinking in the past month. Additionally, 10% of sophomores and 17% of 12th graders admitted to binge drinking, defined as drinking five or more drinks consecutively over two weeks. University of Utah research highlights the importance of early drinking, indicating that teens who start drinking at age 13 have a 43 percent chance of developing alcoholism, compared to a 10 percent chance of those who start to drink at 21. , an illicit substance, is prevalent among adolescents, with 36% of high school students reporting regular use and 6% reporting daily use. Personal stories, like that of SC Sterling, highlight the pervasive nature of adolescent marijuana abuse. Sterling recounts his own experiences of frequent marijuana use starting in grade 11, expressing how easily accessible the drug was in his social circles. His story highlights the detrimental impact of marijuana abuse on memory and academic performance, as he struggled to remember important high school events due to constant drunkenness. Sterling's experience highlights the addictive nature of marijuana, with many teens finding it difficult to stop using it once they start using it. Prescription Drug Abuse Adolescents often abuse prescription drugs for a variety of reasons, including self-medication, performance enhancement, or recreational purposes. Notably, Adderall, commonly prescribed for ADHD, is the prescription drugmost consumed among 12th grade students, with approximately 9.5% of male students and 10% of female students using it without medical supervision. About 6% of high school students also engage in Adderall misuse. Although Adderall may provide benefits when used as intended, such as improved focus and attention, its misuse poses significant risks. Adolescents may abuse Adderall to stay awake for long periods of time, enhance their social experiences, manage their weight, or improve their academic performance. However, misuse of these medications can lead to dependence and adverse health consequences, complicating the situation. Many adolescents face difficulty managing academic, social, and athletic pressures. Such behaviors increase the risk of poor decisions, accidents and, tragically, suicide attempts. Additionally, adolescents' physical health is significantly compromised by substance use. Short-term drug abuse can impair brain function and hinder long-term physical growth and development. Research indicates that excessive alcohol consumption in adolescents can lead to delayed puberty, decreased bone density, elevated levels of liver enzymes indicating liver damage, stunted limb growth, and potential for reduced growth. Sterling, reflecting on his own experiences, recognizes the irreversible damage inflicted on his body by drugs and alcohol, even if he remains alive. Drug addiction takes a toll on vital organs such as the liver and heart, often leading to lasting health complications. Mental Health Effects The impact of drug and alcohol abuse extends beyond physical health, profoundly affecting adolescents' mental well-being and decision-making abilities. Substance use can cloud judgment and exacerbate underlying emotional problems such as anxiety, depression, mood instability, and hallucinations. Long-term marijuana use, in particular, has been linked to an increased risk of developing schizophrenia, with heavy users having a six times greater likelihood. Early initiation of marijuana use may hinder emotional development and increase susceptibility to mental health disorders such as depression and anxiety. Mental health professionals have observed a strong correlation between depression and substance abuse, recognizing a symbiotic relationship between the two. Drug-induced behavioral changes, marked by aggression, paranoia, and violence, can precipitate serious consequences, contributing to increased adolescent mortality rates due to substance abuse. The death rate from drug and alcohol abuse increased by 16% annually between 2014 and 2017, with deaths attributed to a variety of factors including permanent brain damage from inhalants, heart attacks or strokes due to stimulants and respiratory failure due to sedatives. A report from the Trust for America's Health highlights a worrying trend, with drug overdose rates more than doubling over the past decade among individuals aged 12 to 25. Sterling candidly reflects on the dark potential consequences of continued drug addiction, recognizing the risk of overdose, of violence. , or suicide. The irreversible physical and mental consequences highlight the need for adolescents to understand the seriousness of their actions and recognize thedangers inherent in drug and alcohol abuse. Preventative Measures Support from family and friends significantly reduces the likelihood that adolescents will engage in drug and alcohol abuse. Adults, especially parents, play a crucial role in prevention by serving as positive role models. Parents must demonstrate responsible behavior when it comes to substance use because their actions strongly influence their children's choices. Studies by the Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America indicate that children are more likely to imitate their parents' behavior, especially if they directly witness substance use. Therefore, parents' attitudes toward alcohol and drug use greatly influence their children's perceptions and decisions regarding substance abuse. Parents need to recognize their role as primary influencers and understand that their actions set the tone for their teens' behavior. Monitoring and securing prescription medications within the home is essential to empowering adolescents and preventing abuse. Restricting access to alcohol, cleaning solutions, and medications reduces the risk of adolescent substance abuse because closely monitored supplies deter experimentation. It is imperative that parents communicate openly with their teens about the dangers of drug abuse, even if they think their teen is not using drugs. Allowing drug use in the home or sharing medications with adolescents is a misguided attempt at harm reduction and only exacerbates the problem. By actively monitoring household supplies and establishing clear rules and consequences, parents can empower their teens to make informed decisions and prevent substance abuse. Consistently enforcing boundaries and communicating expectations around drug and alcohol use reinforces the seriousness of the problem and encourages responsible behavior. Sterling's experience highlights the importance of parental intervention and the consequences of substance abuse. Her father's inability to combat his addiction allowed the abuse to continue and perpetuated the cycle of addiction. Parents should enforce strict consequences for substance abuse to deter adolescents from engaging in risky behaviors. Keep in mind: this is just a sample. Get a personalized article from our expert writers now. Get a Custom Essay Conclusion The prevalence of drug and alcohol abuse among adolescents highlights the urgent need for preventive measures. Various substances, including alcohol, prescription drugs, and marijuana, are easily accessible to adolescents, increasing the risk of abuse. The detrimental effects of drug abuse on the physical and mental health of adolescents cannot be underestimated, often leading to tragic consequences such as death. Parents can play a central role in preventing substance abuse by setting positive examples, setting clear rules, and enforcing consequences. By maintaining open communication and monitoring household supplies, parents can mitigate the risks associated with substance abuse and empower their teens to make responsible choices. The long-term effects of drug addiction extend beyond the individual and affect friends, family, and the broader community. It is society's responsibility to address the root causes of drug addiction and prioritize prevention efforts to safeguard adolescent well-being and prevent tragedies 2016..2018-2717