Which drugs most commonly used by young people?

 

The drugs that are most commonly used by

young people are alcohol, tobacco, and

marijuana. Recently, more young people

have started vaping tobacco and marijuana.

There is still a lot we don't know about the

dangers of vaping. Some people have

unexpectedly gotten very ill or have even

died after vaping. Because of this, young

people should stay away from vaping.

Why do young people take drugs?

There are many different reasons why a

young person may take drugs, including

To fit in. Young people may do drugs

because they want to be accepted by friends

or peers who are doing drugs.

To feel good. Abused drugs can produce

feelings of pleasure.

To feel better. Some young people suffer

from depression, anxiety, stress-related

disorders, and physical pain. They may do

drugs to try to get some relief.

To do better in academics or sports. Some

young people may take stimulants for

studying or anabolic steroids to improve their

athletic performance.

To experiment. Young people often want to

try new experiences, especially ones that

they think are thrilling or daring.

Which young people are at risk for drug

use?

Different factors may raise a young person's

risk for drug use, including

Stressful early life experiences, such child

abuse, child sexual abuse, and other forms

of trauma

Genetics

Prenatal exposure to alcohol or other drugs

Lack of parental supervision or monitoring

Having peers and/or friends who use drugs.

What are the signs that a young person

has a drug problem?

Changing friends a lot

Spending a lot of time alone

Losing interest in favorite things

Not taking care of themselves - for example,

not taking showers, changing clothes, or

brushing their teeth

Being really tired and sad.

Eating more or eating less than usual

Being very energetic, talking fast, or saying

things that don't make sense

Being in a bad mood

Quickly changing between feeling bad and

feeling good

Missing important appointments

Having problems at school - missing class,

getting bad grades

Having problems in personal or family

relationships

Lying and stealing

Memory lapses, poor concentration, lack of

coordination, slurred speech, etc.

Can drug use in young people be prevented?

Drug use and addiction are preventable.

Prevention programs involving families,

schools, communities, and the media may

prevent or reduce drug use and addiction.

These programs include education and

outreach to help people understand the risks.

of drug use.

You can help prevent your children from

using drugs through

Good communication with your children

Encouragement, so your children can build

confidence and a strong sense of self. It also

helps parents promote cooperation and

reduce conflict.

Teaching your children problem-solving

skills

Setting limits, to teach your children self-

control and responsibility, provide safe

boundaries, and show them that you care

Supervision, which helps parents recognize

developing problems, promote safety, and

stay involved

Knowing your children's friends.