Although the use of many drugs have recently declined among teenagers there are still a significant number using illegal drugs. In the National Institute on Drug Abuse 2005 Monitoring the Future survey researchers found that 50% of high school seniors report some use of an illicit drug during their life. Many parents do not realize the signs of drug abuse or realize the prevalence among teenagers.
Alcohol is the most common substance used, with 75% of seniors having at least tried alcohol and 23% within the last month. Few teenagers truly understand the risks associated with drinking alcohol and often give into peer pressure during social gatherings. It is important that parents discuss drinking with their children and give them ways and reasons to say no. Encourage teenagers to not attend parties where alcohol will be present and give them alternate ways to have fun.
Cigarettes are the next most common drugs abused by teenagers. Most teens assume they can quit smoking at will. Instead they often find themselves addicted. Read my blog Smoking Ads Attract Teens for more information about how advertisers attract teens. It is interesting to note that the most common drugs abused are those that are legal for adults and are not supposed to be sold to teenagers, but somehow they still obtain them.
Marijuana has been used by 44% of seniors and is the most popular drug that is completely illegal in the United States. 60% of teens that do use drugs use marijuana. Marijuana abuse is associated with poor academic performance and increased risky behaviors. The most recent survey found that fewer eighth graders today see a risk in smoking marijuana than in the past. The message needs to be clear smoking marijuana is dangerous.
Inhalants are the most commonly abused illegal drug among those in middle school (17.1%) and even elementary school students are abusing inhalants. Inhalants are easily purchased and teens do not realize the risks associated with these common household products. Inhalants include paint thinners, glues, spray paint, whipped cream dispensers, hair sprays and other substances. Signs that your teen is using inhalants include chemical odors, stains, empty spray paint or solvent containers, and chemical soaked rags.
Prescription Drug use among teenagers has been rising at a rate of 25% per year since 2001. Most teens take prescription drugs because of personal or family-related stress. If your teen is feeling stressed or involved in many activities they are at high risk for abusing prescription drugs.
As parents we need to be aware of the prevalence of drugs in schools and the ease with which they can be obtained. The Bureau of Justice reports that 85% of teens say they know where to get marijuana and 55% know how to get amphetamines. Even more frightening is that 29% of students say that someone has “offered, sold, or given them an illegal drug on school property.”
It is important that we talk to our teenagers about drugs. Let them know the dangers associated with drug use and our disapproval of them taking drugs.