Why Teens Use

By Mark
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There are many reasons why teens start using.

As teens approach their teen years, they begin to experience many emotional and physical changes – changes that are not always easy.1 During this challenging and confusing time, even good teens may experiment with alcohol or drugs.

For most teens, it’s not just one thing that influences them to use, but a combination of factors.2

Stress

When teens worry about things like grades, fitting in, and physical appearance, they may use alcohol or drugs as a way to escape their problems.3 Encourage your teen to get involved in sports or other extracurricular activities as a healthier way to cope.4

More Freedom

As teens begin spending more time with their peers and less time with their parents, this increased freedom can lead to using.5 While it’s important to give your teen space, keep track of where they are and who they’re with. If they are at a friend’s house, make sure a responsible adult is nearby or accessible.

Curiosity

Taking chances and trying new things is a normal part of growing up. For some teens, this exploration includes experimenting with alcohol or drugs.6 Remind your teen about the real risks of underage using, and make sure he or she knows how you feel about underage using.

Peer Pressure

Most teens feel pressure to be popular and fit in. Many try alcohol or drugs when they are in a social setting where “everyone else is doing it.”7 Help boost your teen’s confidence by helping them learn different ways to say “no”, and reminding them that real friends wouldn’t pressure them to use.

Transitions

Life events, like going from middle school to high school, breaking up with a significant other, moving, or divorce, can cause a teen to turn to alcohol or drugs.8 Reassure your teen that things will get easier, and make sure he or she knows that using isn’t a solution.

Environment

If teens grow up in an environment where adults use excessively, they are more likely to use themselves.9 If you choose to use, set a good example by using in moderation, and make sure your teen knows that underage using is not acceptable.

Genetics

Teens who come from a family with a history of alcoholism and drug addiction are at an increased risk for alco­hol or drug dependence. If alcoholism and drug addiction runs in your family, have an honest discussion with your teen, and make sure he or she understands the seriousness of the disease.10

Personality

Teens who are disruptive, hyperactive, or depressed are at a higher risk for alcohol and drug prob­lems.11 If you feel that your teen’s social issues could lead him or her to abuse alcohol or drugs, con­sider having your teen see a drug and alcohol counselor. 

REFERENCES
1National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, “Alcohol Alert,” 2006, No. 67, Page 1, 2 and 3.
2U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, “The Surgeon General’s Call to Action to Prevent and Reduce Underage Using,” 2007, Section 2, Page 18, 21 and 22
4National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, “Make a Difference: Talk to Your Teen about Alcohol,” 2009, Page 5 and 18.
5SAMHSA, “Start Talking Before They Start Using,” 2009, Page 16, 17 and 26. 

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