Facts About Teenage Drug Addiction

Drug addiction is a serious problem in our society, and the most troublesome part is teenage drug addiction. Our children are being exposed to dangerous drugs at early ages, and often times they are exposed through their family members as.  With drugs available in many places, it's hard to imagine how we can successfully prevent teenage drug addiction.

Among teenagers, the most widely abused drugs are alcohol and marijuana, although methamphetamine and heroin are also popular. The main reason for teens to use drugs is to escape from the problems in their lives.  They see it as an easy way out at least for as long as the drug lasts. Teenagers tend to perceive small problems as overwhelming, so their tendency to use drugs is much higher than an adult's. They keep using them to and eventually become addicted.

Some of the more common signs of drug addiction in teens include: dramatic changes in behavior, dull, glassy eyes, excessive tiredness, failing in school, lying or stealing, isolation or loss of interest in activities.

If you suspect a teenage drug addiction, the most important thing to keep in mind is that open communication and being honest is the key to solve the problem. Your first instinct will probably be anger, but if you show let it show, the teen will retract and not hear what you say - at least not consciously.

Remain calm and have a heart-to-heart talk about drug addiction and how it can damage a person's life.  Point out the physical effects of drugs cause such as sleep disturbances, heart problems, paranoia, and lethargy. Show pictures of people who are addicted to drugs both before and after their addiction. There are plenty of places you can obtain this kind of information.

Arm yourself with as much information as you can. Present what you've learned to your teen in a way that speaks to them and is important to them. Try to look at the problem from their point of view and encourage them to be honest with you about why they started using in the first place.

You will also want to get counseling for your teenager, which can be done at a local mental health facility. Teens tend to relate best when there are other younger people to talk to. See if there is a peer counselor or peer group therapy available in your community.  If not, maybe you could start one yourself!

Teenage drug addiction is a problem that should not be ignored. Communicate with your teenager, listen to them, and get them the help they need.  They deserve it and your family deserves it.