Adolescence is a period marked by tremendous physical, emotional, cognitive, and social development and challenges. It is at this stage that the used-to-be tiny child of yours develops advanced patterns of reasoning, seeks to forge their own identity, and establishes attachments with people outside of your home.
Unfortunately, as teens develop a sense of self, many of them get to unlock the destructive power of their own curiosity and become irresistibly drawn to explore the unknown which, in many instances, can get them into trouble. One such problem that can stem from curiosity and the propensity to seek thrill is drug abuse.
Nonetheless, drug abuse in itself is a multifaceted issue: while many teen drug users are driven by their eagerness to understand it, it is important to take note that no single factor determines a teen’s propensity to abuse drugs. Experts delineate several other factors that could increase a teen’s likelihood of abusing drugs, and consequently, developing addiction. Let’s explore a few of these factors.
Emotional Trauma or Undiagnosed Mental Health Disorder
Abusing drugs can be a coping mechanism for people struggling with emotional trauma or undiagnosed mental health disorder, such as anxiety and depression. Emotional trauma can stem from family discord or household dysfunction; physical, emotional, or sexual abuse; exposure to violence, among others.
Lack of Family Involvement/ Parental Supervision
Lack of a bond among family members, lack of parental supervision, and poor parenting style can all have an impact on a teen’s propensity to abuse drugs.
Peer Pressure
Positive peer pressure can help your teen develop the skills they need to prepare for adulthood. Negative peer pressure, on the other hand, can lead a teen in bad directions and can therefore be damaging.
Despite your teen’s awareness of the harmful effects of drug use and abuse, their desire to impress their peers can override their own fear of taking risks.
Family History of Addiction
Scientists have established that genetic factors account for up to 60 percent of a person’s susceptibility to drug addiction. That is to say, if you have a family member or a relative with drug addiction, your teen is at greater risk of developing the same problem.
Teenage Drug Abuse Counseling Services in Purchase, NY
If you suspect that your teen is using drugs or has the risk factors for drug abuse, schedule an appointment with our highly-qualified pediatricians here at BridgeSpan Medicine. We work closely with parents by referring patients to psychologists, psychiatrists, and substance abuse programs to provide their teens with the encouragement and all the resources necessary to guide them along the path to complete recovery and onto a happy, productive life.
To find out more about our services or to schedule a consultation with one of the pediatricians, call us at 914-698-5544, or you can also book an appointment right here on our website.
