There is a misconception that most teens try drugs at some point and that they can experiment safely. While many teens use drugs, they are always at risk for health complications when they do so. These complications are often far worse than what can happen when a person is older. Substance abuse and addiction can occur sooner as well. That is why it is important to seek help from Atlantic Recovery Center as soon as possible if your teen is abusing drugs.
What Makes Teenage Drug Abuse Dangerous?
Teenage drug abuse can lead to a number of different complications. Some may believe it is a right of passage to experiment with alcohol or drugs, but doing so creates increased risks for long-term problems. Learn more about some of these concerns and contact an addiction treatment center near you today.
Brain Development Is Still Happening
During the teen years, the brain is still developing both psychologically and biologically. As a result of this, teens who use drugs now could be creating long-lasting changes in the brain’s function. The teenage brain is still working to develop ways to communicate and operate effectively. When drugs are involved, that makes it harder for the brain to function as it should. This can lead to a number of complications, including:
- A reduced ability to feel pleasure
- Inhibited development of cognitive functions
- Trouble with learning and gathering information
- Long-lasting memory problems
- Damaged connections in the neurotransmitters that cannot be fixed
Physical Problems
Another key concern with teen use of drugs is that it can lead to complications with their physical health early on. Teenage drug abuse means that teens are taking in toxic substances into their bodies. Their bodies are still growing and developing, and with these substances, it can be very difficult to develop properly. There are a number of potential complications that can arise, including:
- Low bone mineral density
- Damage to the reproductive system
- Shorter limbs
- Reduced growth potential
- Higher liver enzymes leading to liver damage
Behavioral Outcomes with Teens
In addition to these risks, teenage drug abuse also can lead to an increase in a variety of complications related to behavior. Many teens make bad decisions due to addiction, which can form even with limited use of drugs as well as with what some would deep “safe” drugs like marijuana or alcohol. These risks include:
- Poor performance in school
- Higher risk taking including with sexual function
- Higher risk of car accidents
- More likely to have a criminal record
- Harder start to career goals or getting into college
- More likely to engage in physical assaults
- Trouble with relationships
Substance abuse can lead to behavioral issues simply because it makes decision making very difficult.
Getting the Right Help for Teenage Drug Abuse
No matter if you have a teenage son or daughter who you are concerned about, or you are a teen who wants to overcome addiction, getting help quickly matters. Substance abuse help is available, and it can provide opportunities for recovery. Our team works with many young adults who have experienced teenage drug abuse as well as those who need help right now to curb these risks. Let us help with programs such as:
- Men’s rehab program
- Women’s rehab program
- Partial hospitalization program
- Intensive outpatient program
- Dual diagnosis treatment
Contact Atlantic Recovery Center today to learn more.
Find Help Today at Atlantic Recovery Center
When it comes to teenage drug abuse, recognizing the need for help is critical. The sooner that happens, the more likely it is that you can avoid the negative consequences of substance abuse. Our team at Atlantic Recovery Center can help you every step of the way. Let us offer guidance and support as you work to break your addiction. Call us at 1-866-824-5193 for a consultation.