What Affect Does Drug Abuse Have on Teens?

Because drugs are a big concern for parents and teenagers alike, understanding the effects drugs have on a teenager's developing body is crucial information for prevention and treatment. The effects of drug use on a teenager's body vary by drug. Because several types of illegal drugs exist, teenagers experience a wide variety of side effects. Once parents or other caregivers realize there's a problem, methods of treatment are available.

Identification of Drug Use

• The sooner a parent confirms drug use in his teen, the sooner treatment may begin. Though the effects of drug use are varied and wide ranging, many teenagers may exhibit some general behaviors. Teenagers who have started using drugs may lose interest in their personal appearance, not care about grades or extra-curricular activities, change friends, lose interest in hobbies or sports, and show signs of depression and anger.

Significance

• According to the National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse at Columbia University, parents and teens view drugs as their biggest concern. Because a teenager's body is still growing, the harmful effects of drugs may be magnified. Effects can vary, depending on the kind of drug, the size of the teenager, how quickly the drug travels to the brain, and what other drugs it has been mixed with.

Marijuana and Teens

• Though legalized in some areas for health benefits, marijuana--the most popular teenage drug--has both long and short term negative effects for teenagers. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, the short-term effects of marijuana include problems with memory and problem solving, trouble with thinking, loss of motor coordination, and increased heart rate. In addition, the long-term effects of marijuana use include cancer from THC found in the plant, breathing problems similar to those of a smoker and a depressed immune system.

Other Drugs

• In addition to marijuana, some teenagers look to harder drugs. These drugs all have negative side effects for a teenager. For instance, amphetamines cause hallucinations and paranoia, and cocaine and crack elevate the heart rate and blood pressure, suppress breathing and may cause heart attacks in first-time users. In addition to typical illegal street drugs, some teenagers look to over the counter medications--such as cough and cold medicines--to get high. These drugs can cause fever confusion, impaired judgment, blurred vision, and dizziness.

Getting Help

• For teenagers suffering with a marijuana addiction, there are currently no medications to help; however, programs do exist that focus on counseling and group support. In addition, rehabilitation centers are available and are geared specifically for teenagers. Please see the Resources section for more information.