There are a number of reasons why alcohol or drugs are appealing to teens. They may use a substance due to stress, peer pressure, family conflict, or as a means of experimentation. There are many psychological, emotional, and social characteristics of drugs that make them appealing to adolescents. Furthermore, teen alcohol and drug use have increased sharply over the last decade.

Which Substances Contribute Most To Teen Alcohol and Drug Use?

When it comes to teen alcohol and drug use, some substances are more appealing than others. They may be more addictive, more available, or more socially acceptable. The most used substances include:

1. Alcohol

By the time a teenager reaches 12th grade, at least half of their graduating class is either drinking or abusing alcohol. It should not come as any surprise, as most of these teenagers have parents that also drink regularly or abuse alcohol. Why is alcohol so popular? First, it is available everywhere. Second, it is legal and culturally accepted. Lastly, many teens are subject to peer pressure to drink at social gatherings and parties.

2. Marijuana

The second most popular substance among teen males is marijuana. With more U.S. states legalizing marijuana, an increase in use has skyrocketed with adolescents. Nearly 50 percent of all users report a lifetime use. Nearly ten percent of all teenagers use marijuana every day. Marijuana is extremely due to its euphoric and hallucinogenic effects. It is also one of the safest drugs. Therefore, teens may attempt to justify their use.

3. Cigarettes

Teen behavioral addiction treatment centers do not focus as much on recovery from nicotine addiction as they do addiction to other drugs such as heroin or cocaine. And yet, smoking is connected to four out of the five leading causes of death in the United States (heart disease, cancer, chronic lower respiratory disease, strokes). Although cigarette use has declined over the last decade, nearly ten percent of all teen males still smoke.

4. Adderall

With the rise in ADHD, anxiety, and depression diagnoses in teenagers, prescription stimulant medications are now commonplace with adolescents. Adderall drastically improves mood and boosts energy. These two effects make it highly addictive and dangerous. Other amphetamines that are similar to Adderall include:

• Dexedrine
• Ritalin
• Concerta
• Vyvanse

5. Opioids

Opioids are popular with both teens and adults due to their enormous pain-killing power and the euphoria they produce. Some of the most common opioids include:

• Oxycontin
• Morphine
• Opana
• Fentanyl
• Codeine
• Tramadol

What makes opioids so dangerous is that it is easy to overdose on them. Some teens will stay on opioids for several weeks or months and build dependency on them before they reach adulthood.

Learn More About Teen Alcohol and Drug Use

If you have a teen that is addicted to alcohol or drugs, then you can get help at Foothills at Red Oak Recovery. With the right treatment, your teen can get clean and stay clean for life. Do not let drugs or alcohol ruin your child’s life. Contact us online or call 866.300.5275 to learn more about teen alcohol and drug use, as well as treatment for addiction.