Alcohol, Vaping, Pills? Working Out the Truth About Teen Substance Use
Let’s face it, activities that were considered “risky behaviors” in the past are often seen in a different light today. When it comes to smoking, vaping, and drinking, it often feels like there are lots of blurred lines to work through.
We know that social media, movies, and celebrities can both normalize and glamorize substance use. While parents and teens know the well-publicized dangers, teens also see such activities as social connectors and, frankly, time-fillers. This increases the risk of early use and more deeply-rooted issues later on.
Are you a teen that drinks, vapes, take pills, or smokes for the social aspects of it? Or have you found that your habits have a bigger hold on you now?
Are you a parent that suspects your teen is using substances and is worried about their health?
Either way, you should know that, due to easy access to all of these substances, the chance of substance abuse increases. Moreover, the likelihood of addiction increases as well.
Teens, your body and future deserve better. Mom or Dad, you deserve peace of mind.
So what do we do? What’s the truth about teen substance abuse?
First, understand that not only does the problem stem from a lack of education about substances, but underlying issues may be triggering interest in those activities. This can lead to dependency and lots of anxiety.
When Substance Use is Normalized
No teen should feel alone when it comes to substance use struggles. It’s estimated that 30% of teenagers in the U.S. have had at least one drink by the time they’re 15.
And now? Vaping and pills use have become so normalized today that experimentation is a dangerous slope that sends many users tumbling toward unforeseen consequences.
Vaping, for example, is often advertised as a “safe” alternative to smoking. In reality, it can very quickly cause serious lasting chemical damage to the lungs and resulting in respiratory health problems.
Pills, too, are often viewed as something that can make a party more fun or make pushing through a long night of studying possible. The problem? Users often only know half of the information about these substances. Yet their use appears to be common and socially acceptable. Thus, the rewards seem to outweigh the risks and too many kids pay the consequences with their health or even their lives.
Why Knowing as Much as Possible is Necessary
The truth? There is a gaping hole in what we know and pay attention to regarding substance use. The reality is that so many substances are seen as normal and harmless to kids from middle school on. This only means that more young people are willing to try them at an earlier age.
Consider how much you know and where you got your information. Most kids get a general “just say no” message from school and parents that doesn’t stand up well against peer pressure.
Peer pressure is still alive and well in schools across America. Now, thanks to the pandemic, the mental health of teens across the country has started to become a hot topic of conversation. Some teenagers might turn to substances to cope with the changes in their lives, and encourage their friends to do the same.
Education about these things does start at home, of course. However, it’s not enough to just give or receive warnings that certain substances are dangerous. Instead, real talk about why vaping or pills are so attractive is as important as discussions about how they are harmful and can lead to even more dangerous habits or even addictions.
Really explore and communicate about substance use together. Normalizing the discussion will help combat pressure to use or continue using.
When You Should Take Action
Whether you’re a teen or a parent, it’s crucial to know when substance use has become an imminent problem.
Keep in mind that, in some cases, using something one time can be enough to cause lasting damage to your brain or body. Know the warning signs of abuse and addiction. Some of the most prominent ones include:
Feelings of extreme confidence
Increased energy and restlessness
Behavioral changes
Aggression
Anxiety or paranoia
Confusion
If you’re experiencing these things, or if you’re a parent noticing these signs, they aren’t to be taken lightly. Consider them the first red flags of substance abuse that requires immediate action.
The Bottom Line? Support Matters
It’s unlikely that society will stop trying to make substance use look “cool” any time soon. However, it is time to stop normalizing health-damaging substance use for yourself, your friends, or your children. Knowing yourself, the underlying reasons for using, and the ramifications can help you to see, as a teen, how quickly your life could be destroyed. Feeling empowered to take charge and make healthy changes now is vital.
Teens, you don’t have to overcome the lure of substance use on your own. Parents, you don’t have to have all the answers. You just have to reach out for guidance and support. No one needs to figure this out by themselves. I am happy to help you sort you through this complicated issue.
Please read more about teen counseling or reach out for a consultation today. The time to act is now.
Photo by Chandra Oh on Unsplash