Index IntroductionTypes of drugs abused by adolescentsAlcohol abuseMarijuana use among adolescentsPrescription drug abuseEffects of drug and alcohol abuse on adolescentsEffects on physical healthEffects on mental healthPreventive measuresConclusionIntroductionDid you know that about 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 adolescents exposed to substances such as alcohol, marijuana, and prescription drugs. Furthermore, 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 fatal outcomes, which are discussed in this essay. However, there are strategies to prevent substance abuse among teens, such as setting positive examples at home, monitoring prescription drug use, and setting clear rules and expectations. Although substance abuse presents significant challenges for 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 Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original EssayTypes of Drugs Abused by TeensAlcohol AbuseDrug and alcohol abuse among teens presents significant challenges in today's society, with the problem steadily worsening over time. Alcohol consumption is of particular concern among adolescents, as studies indicate that people who begin drinking during adolescence, especially in large quantities, are at greater risk of developing alcohol dependence later in life. Recent data from a 2017 study revealed alarming trends, with nearly 20% of 10th graders and approximately 30% of 12th graders reporting alcohol use in the past month. Additionally, 10% of sophomores and 17% of 12th graders admitted to binge drinking, defined as consuming five or more drinks consecutively for two weeks. Research from the University of Utah highlights the importance of early alcohol consumption, indicating that adolescents who start drinking at age 13 have a 43% chance of developing alcoholism, compared to a 10% chance for those who start drinking at 21. Marijuana Use Among Teens Marijuana, an illicit substance, is prevalent among teens, with 36 percent of high school students reporting regular use and 6 percent reporting daily use. Personal narratives, like that of SC Sterling, shed light on the pervasive nature of marijuana abuse among adolescents. Sterling recounts his experiences of frequent marijuana use starting in the eleventh grade, expressing how easily accessible the drug was through his social circles. His story highlights the detrimental impact of marijuana abuse on memory and academic performance, as he struggled to remember significant events from high school due to constant intoxication. Sterling's experience highlights the addictive nature of marijuana, with many teenagers finding it difficult to stop using once it starts. Prescription Drug Abuse Adolescents often abuse prescription drugs for various reasons, including self-medication, performance enhancement, or recreational purposes. Notably, Adderall, commonly prescribed for ADHD, is the most abused prescription drug among high school students, with approximately 9.5% of male college students and 10% of female college students using ituse without medical supervision. About 6% of high school students also misuse Adderall. While Adderall can offer benefits when used as intended, such as improved focus and attention, its misuse carries significant risks. Teens may abuse Adderall to stay awake for extended periods, enhance social experiences, manage weight, or improve academic performance. However, misuse of such drugs can lead to addiction and adverse health outcomes, complicating the difficulty many adolescents face in managing academic, social and athletic pressures. Effects of Drug and Alcohol Abuse on Adolescents Effects on Physical Health The repercussions of drug and alcohol abuse among adolescents can be profound and potentially lead to life-altering consequences. These behaviors increase the likelihood of poor decision making, accidents and, tragically, suicide attempts. Additionally, adolescents' physical health is significantly jeopardized by substance use. Short-term drug abuse can impair brain function and impede long-term physical growth and development. Research indicates that excessive alcohol consumption in adolescents can result in delayed puberty, decreased bone density, elevated liver enzyme levels indicating liver damage, stunted limb growth, and reduced growth potential. Sterling, reflecting on his own experiences, recognizes the irreversible damage inflicted on his body by drugs and alcohol, although he remains alive. Substance abuse places a strain 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 the mental well-being and decision-making abilities of adolescents. Substance use can cloud judgment and exacerbate underlying emotional problems such as anxiety, depression, mood swings, and hallucinations. Long-term marijuana use, in particular, has been linked to an increased risk of developing schizophrenia, with heavy users being six times more likely. Early initiation of marijuana use can impede 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, characterized by aggression, paranoia and violence, can precipitate serious consequences, contributing to increased mortality rates among adolescents due to substance abuse. The death rate due to drug and alcohol abuse has increased, increasing 16% each year from 2014 to 2017, with deaths attributed to various factors including permanent brain damage from inhalants, heart attacks or strokes from stimulants, and respiratory failure from sedatives. A report from the Trust for America's Health highlights a worrying trend, with overdose rates more than doubling over the past decade among individuals ages 12 to 25. Sterling candidly reflects on the grim potential results of continued substance abuse, acknowledging the risk of overdose, violence, or suicide. The irreversible physical and mental consequences highlight the imperative for adolescents to understand the severity of their actions and recognize the inherent dangers of drug and alcohol abuse. Preventive measures Support from family and friends significantly reduces the likelihood of adolescents engaging in drug and alcohol abuse. Adults, inparents in particular, play a crucial role in prevention by acting as positive role models. Parents should demonstrate responsible behavior regarding substance use, as their actions heavily influence their children's choices. Studies conducted by the Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America indicate that children are more likely to emulate their parents' behavior, especially if they witness substance use firsthand. Therefore, parents' attitudes toward alcohol and drug use greatly influence their children's perceptions and decisions regarding substance abuse. Parents must recognize their role as primary influencers and understand that their actions set the tone for their adolescents' behavior. Monitoring and ensuring the prescription of drugs within the family is essential to empower adolescents and prevent their misuse. Limiting access to alcohol, cleaning solutions, and medications reduces the likelihood of substance abuse among adolescents, as carefully monitored supplies discourage experimentation. It is critical that parents engage in open communication with their teens about the dangers of substance abuse, even if they believe their teen does not use drugs. Allowing drug use at home or sharing drugs with teenagers 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 children to make informed decisions and discourage substance abuse. Consistently enforcing limits and communicating expectations regarding drug and alcohol use reinforces the severity of the problem and encourages responsible behavior. Sterling's experience highlights the importance of parental intervention and the consequences of substance abuse. His father's failure to address his addiction enabled continued abuse and perpetuated the cycle of addiction. Genes urgently need preventive measures. Various substances, including alcohol, prescription drugs, and marijuana, are easily accessible to adolescents, increasing the risk of abuse. The harmful effects of substance abuse on the physical and mental health of adolescents cannot be overstated and often lead to tragic outcomes such as death. Parents can play a critical 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 children to make responsible choices. The long-term effects of substance abuse extend beyond the individual, affecting friends, family and the broader community. It is up to society to address the root causes of substance abuse and prioritize prevention efforts to safeguard the well-being of adolescents and prevent unnecessary tragedies. References: National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2020). Drugs, brain, and behavior: The science of addiction. https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/drugs-brains-behavior-science-addiction/drug-abuse-addictionJohnston, L.D., Miech, R.A., O'Malley, P.M., Bachman, J.G., Schulenberg, J.E., and Patrick, ME (2019). Tracking future national drug use survey results, 1975-2018: Overview, key findings on adolescent drug use. Institute for Social Research, University of Michigan. http://www.monitoringthefuture.org/pubs/monographs/mtf-overview2018.pdf Center for Behavioral Health Statistics and Quality. (2020). National Survey on Drug Use and Health 2019: Detailed tables. 2016..2018-2717