As any parent knows, raising a teenager can be a challenging experience. They are at a point in their lives where they are exploring their independence and trying to figure out who they are. As a result, they may be more likely to take risks, including trying substances like alcohol, marijuana, tobacco, and other drugs.

While experimenting with substances is a normal part of teenage development, it can also lead to serious problems, such as substance use disorder (SUD). Parents need to talk to their teen's pediatrician about screening for substance use. Screening can help identify teenage SUD early on when it's easier to treat.

Teens Are Primed for Substance Use Disorder

The teenage years are often associated with impulsive and risky behavior. This is partly because the brain area responsible for reasoning–the pre-frontal cortex–is less active during young adulthood. The under-development of the pre-frontal cortex in teens results in poorer decision-making skills. As a result, teenagers are more likely to take risks, including engaging in substance abuse.

Teenagers are also more likely to experiment with drugs and alcohol due to peer pressure and a desire to fit in. Unfortunately, these teenage substance abuse behaviors can lead to addiction and other serious problems later in life. 

Fortunately, SUD treatment and support options are available to help teens get their lives back on track. Next Level Recovery Associates can help with early intervention, which can effectively prevent a full-blown SUD.

Consequences of Teen Substance Abuse

Teenage SUD is a real and growing problem. Substance abuse can lead to several harmful effects on adolescent development, including brain damage and stunted growth. In addition, teenage substance use often leads to other risky behaviors such as unprotected sex and dangerous driving. 

Not only that, but teenage substance abuse can also lead to health problems later in life, such as heart disease, high blood pressure, and sleep disorders. Finally, the earlier teens start using substances, the greater their chances of continuing to use substances and developing SUD later in life. When teenage substance use spirals into teenage SUD, it can have devastating consequences. That's why it's so important to be aware of adolescent substance use risks and take steps to prevent them.

Behavioral Warning Signs 

Your teen's mood swings can often be attributed to the racing and changing hormones that come with adolescence. For the most part, teen mood swings are normal. However, it is essential to be aware of the behavioral and physical signs that your teen may have a problem.

Behavioral signs of drug use or substance abuse include:

• Avoiding eye contact

• Ignoring or breaking curfew

• Acting irresponsibly

• Frequently asking for money

• Stealing

• Locking bedroom doors

• Making secretive calls

• Isolating from others/damaging relationships with family or friends

• Making excuses (or outright lying)

• Withdrawing from classroom participation/slipping in grades

• Resisting discipline or feedback

• Missing school or work

• Losing interest in hobbies or activities

• Abandoning long-time friends

Physical Signs of Substance Abuse

Along with behavioral signs of drug and alcohol use, parents should be on the lookout for physical changes as well. The following signs may indicate a problem:

• Poor hygiene/change in appearance

• Glazed or bloodshot eyes

• Frequent runny nose or nosebleeds

• Paranoia, irritability, anxiety, fidgeting

• Changes in mood or attitude

• Difficulty staying on task/staying focused

• Small track marks on arms or legs (wears long sleeves even in warm weather)

• Pupils larger or smaller than usual

• Cold, sweaty palms or shaking hands

• Sores on mouth

• Headaches

• Puffy, swollen face

• Extremely tired or extremely hyperactive

• Rapid weight gain or loss

These signs could indicate that your teen is struggling with SUD. If you're concerned that your teenager may be using drugs or alcohol, don't hesitate to reach out for help. Many resources are available to families dealing with teenage SUD, and getting support early can make a big difference.

Steps to Take

As parents, there are things you can do to stop the progression of substance abuse. You can help reduce the risk of your teenager developing SUD by being clear about your expectations and setting a good example.

You can also encourage your teenager to develop positive relationships with their friends and peers. Teens who have friends who misuse substances are more likely to do so themselves. Help your teen find friends who share their interests and values and who will support them in making healthy choices.

Encouraging your teenager to be involved in activities they enjoy can also help reduce the risk of substance abuse. When teens are engaged in activities they care about, they are less likely to turn to drugs or alcohol to cope with stress or boredom. So help your teen find an activity or hobby that they can really sink their teeth into, and make sure they have regular opportunities to participate.

Treatment Options

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), today's teens are more likely to abuse drugs than any other age group. If you think your child may be using drugs, don't wait to get help. The sooner you seek SUD support for your teen, the better.

There are many teenage SUD treatment options available. While each child is different, successful adolescent SUD treatment typically includes a combination of individual therapy, family counseling, and support groups. 

Next Level Recovery Associates can help you navigate the process of getting help for your teen. With the help of our substance abuse experts, you can develop a plan that meets your child's specific needs.

Next Level Recovery Associates is a concierge service providing recovery support solutions. We take a compassionate partnership approach with our clients and their families in order to design the most effective individualized pathway toward healing and happiness. We believe that each family walks a unique path. Our philosophy is based on the deep understanding that each family is affected by teen substance use disorder (SUD) in their own way. We offer a variety of support options, including recovery associates, case management, interventions, and individualized treatment plans. We are committed to helping our clients and their families overcome the disastrous effects of SUD and begin the healing process. If you suspect your teen is struggling with substance abuse, don't delay. The longer you wait, the greater the risk of long-term harm. You are not alone, and help is available. Contact Next Level Recovery Associates today at consult@nextlevelra.com.