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Teenage drug abuse has worsened over the years and continues to grow. Realization must be spread as it’s causing many severe problems, including suicides, health, and other issues. Instead of using drugs to avoid problems in life, learning how to deal with them is the right way. It might not be easy to stay strong during these challenging times, but helpful ways are available. All it takes is determination, patience, and support. 

Check our list of symptoms to see if your drug use is getting out of control.

Key symptoms of drug abuse

       Symptoms

  1. Spending extra time alone 
  2. Missing curfew
  3. Common mood swings 
  4. Severe anger issues 
  5. Sleeping for too long or avoiding sleep
  6. Getting into trouble at school 
  7. Missing classes or skipping school
  8. Achieving lower grades
  9. Losing or gaining weight rapidly 
  10. Change in eating habits
  11. Poor hygiene 
  12. Nosebleeds
  13. Losing interest in hobbies 
  14. Having issues with family members and friends
  15. Low self-esteem
  16. Bloodshot eyes
  17. Lack of motivation 
  18. Excessive fatigue
  19. Severe depression or anxiety
  20. Avoiding communication 
  21. Changing friend groups

Drug abuse doesn’t just happen out of nowhere. It results from many genuine factors that affect teenagers.

Many reasons could lead to an unhealthy addiction, such as alcohol and drugs. Let us take a look at some potential reasons that could lead you to unhealthy dependence.

 Reasons for drug abuse.

Peer pressure 

teen drug abuse peer pressure

Negative peers are available in every society, including schools, neighbourhoods, colleges, and workplaces. Fitting in with them can be a challenge. Out of misery, teenagers usually have to accept the offering and use drugs to become part of such groups leading to a constant addiction

Curiosity and experimentation

Natural teenage curiosity and a desire to experiment can lead you to take a casual attitude toward drug abuse.

Anxiety

Teens deal with many things in their lives that cause anxiety, from going through hormonal changes to developing brains, setting high goals, achieving outstanding grades, keeping track of friendships and relationships, to becoming self-conscious and facing the future.

Depression

drug abuse

A few common factors can contribute to both teenage depression and anxiety. For example, being ridiculed for obesity, getting bullied, or feeling hopeless can all lead to feelings of depression. Additionally, having low self-esteem or being in a hostile environment can also cause anxiety.

Physical and sexual abuse 

These two are one of the primary and most dangerous reasons for teenage drug abuse. The consequences include unwanted pregnancies, mental disorders, constant fear, and suicidal thoughts, eventually leading to drug addiction. 

Commonly Abused Drugs 

It has been reported that about 2.8 million teenagers nationwide have tried and gained an addiction to drugs in 2022. The most commonly abused drugs include:

  1. Alcohol
  2. Marijuana
  3. Tobacco
  4. Nicotine
  5. Heroin 
  6. Cocaine 
  7. Valium
  8. Opioid
  9. Prescription drugs

Drug abuse can cause a lot of problems in your life. Some of the problems you might face are listed here.

Complications

  1. Academic performance
  2. Weight loss
  3. Liver damage
  4. Seizures
  5. Strokes
  6. Brain damage
  7. Family issues
  8. Friendship problems
  9. Personality disorders
  10. Suicidal thoughts
  11. Suicide

Seeking Help for drug abuse

drug abuse

Once you realize your addiction and the threatening consequences of drug abuse, the only way to get rid of it is by seeking help and taking care of yourself. Several methods can help you notice and quit drugs permanently. 

  1. Drug tests

Drug tests are available at many grocery stores, workplaces, pharmacies, and music festivals. At-home drug test kits can also be purchased; however, they aren’t usually accurate, so it’s advisable to get them done professionally. 

  1. Discuss the issue with a trusted peer or family member

Talking about drug abuse is a very fragile topic and can be challenging to share. But discussing this problem and the reasons that caused it with someone trustworthy and supportive can make it easier. Letting out your feelings and experiencing encouragement can lighten the burden and help put you on the path to recovery.

  1. Professional help

If you feel your problem is severe, then it’s best to seek professional help. The professional treatment provides specific stages of recovery, including medications and behavioural therapy. 

  1. Exercising

Working out, running and aerobics can help eliminate tension in the body and heal the physical and mental health issues caused by drug misuse. It can also help you express your pressure healthily. 

  1. Changing your environment

Altering your environment can make a huge difference. Pushing negative friends and fellow drug addicts out of your life can help eliminate your chances of using drugs. You can become optimistic, and your anxiety and depression can be improved. 

  1. Distract yourself 

You can spend your spare time in fun and practical ways, like meditating, spending time with your family, making plans with your friends, reading books, and discovering enjoyable hobbies

Only you have the ability to end your addiction. In order to to kick the habit, you have to take responsibility for your actions. It is common for people trying to overcome addictions to experience a relapse. But you should not get discouraged. You may be able to stay on track with the help of support groups and treatment centres.

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