As children age, their stress levels increase. This stress can stem from various sources, including academics, family dynamics, extracurricular pressures, social media influences, and a swiftly changing body. As adolescents enter middle and high school, they may experience substances for the first time. It is essential to comprehend the dangers of adolescent substance use and the preventative measures that families and communities can take. Using substances at an early age increases the likelihood of addiction. The human brain continues to develop until the early 20s. The regions of the brain responsible for risk assessment and judgment are not completely developed in teens and young adults.
Furthermore, substance use has specific effects on the brain. Since their brains are still developing, forming connections, and learning patterns, it is more dangerous for a young person to use any substance, legal or illicit, because their brains are still maturing, forming connections, and learning patterns. Young drug use may unintentionally "teach" the brain to rely on substances to manage with stress or pressure.
90% of people who have a substance use disorder started using alcohol or drugs before they turned 18.
Research shows that the earlier a person starts using drugs in their life, the greater the risk of long-term issues, like developing a substance use disorder. (23)
