Teenage addiction can take various forms and is becoming a growing problem for parents and caregivers. Addiction is not limited to drugs and alcohol but can extend to maladaptive behaviors, such as excessive internet, social media, or video game use. Addressing addiction in teens often includes therapy and a healthy support system.
Charlie Health - Therapy Once Per Week Isn’t Always Enough
Charlie Health’s virtual mental health program includes curated groups, individual therapy, and family therapy for teens and adults with serious mental health issues. Insurance accepted. Learn More
What Is Teenage Addiction?
Teenage addiction refers to the persistent and compulsive use of substances or engagement in harmful behaviors. Addiction can involve substances, alcohol, drugs, and addictive behaviors, like excessive gaming, gambling, or internet use.
Teens struggling with addiction commonly face negative consequences, including negative impacts on physical health, mental well-being, academic performance, and relationships. In severe cases, addiction can ultimately result in overdose and death.
Teenagers are particularly vulnerable to addiction because of peer pressure, curiosity, stress, and emotional challenges. Given the often severe effects, addiction is a serious concern requiring early identification, intervention, and support to prevent long-term repercussions and promote healthier choices.
How Common Is Addiction in Teens?
Unfortunately, teen addiction is a significant and relatively common issue among adolescents. Studies have shown that a notable number of teenagers struggle with addiction.
According to the NCDAS, 46.6% of teens in the United States have tried illicit drugs by 12th grade. Seven million 12- to 20-year-olds report drinking within the last month, with 60.2% reporting binge drinking episodes.
Furthermore, experimentation with substances and alcohol often starts young, with 25.6% of 8th graders admitting to abusing alcohol at least once.1 Research indicates that this early experimentation increases the risk of developing addiction later in life.2
Signs of Addiction in Teens
Recognizing the signs of addiction in teens is crucial for early intervention and support. Though individual manifestations vary to some extent, common indicators of teen drug and alcohol abuse include changes in behavior and declining academic performance.
Teens struggling with addiction may exhibit secretive behaviors, withdrawal from loved ones, sudden mood swings, increased irritability or aggression, and a loss of interest in once-enjoyed activities.3 They may also experience physical symptoms such as bloodshot eyes, appetite or sleep changes, and unexplained weight loss or gain. Additionally, many teens may struggle with declining grades, absenteeism, or increased disciplinary issues.
These signs can indicate other problems. When coupled with evidence of teenage drug use and/or alcohol use, seeking professional help and support can help uncover underlying issues.
Signs of addiction in teens may include:
- Changes in behaviors (e.g., engaging in dangerous activities)
- Changes in sleep patterns
- Mood swings
- Appetite changes
- Increased irritability or aggression
- Anxiety
- Withdrawal symptoms
- Social isolation
- Loss of interest in activities
- Academic problems, absenteeism, and/or disciplinary issues
- Changing social circles or friends
- Disregarding rules or authority
- Changes in appearance or neglecting personal hygiene
- Unexplained weight loss or gain
- Bloodshot eyes
- Stealing money or items to pay for substances
Examples of Substance Abuse in Teens
Teenage addiction is not limited to simply alcohol or cigarettes. Instead, teens may encounter various illicit and dangerous drugs throughout adolescence. Explaining the danger of such substances to your teen may help reduce the risk of abuse and addiction.
Alcohol
Alcohol abuse in teens is a serious concern with significant implications for physical and mental well-being. Teenagers engaging in alcohol abuse are at a higher risk of developing a psychological addiction to alcohol. Psychological addiction is the compulsion to drink, driven by cravings and an emotional attachment to its effects. Often, this coincides with physical dependence.
Teenagers abusing alcohol may experience many negative consequences, including impaired judgment, increased risk-taking behaviors, academic problems, strained relationships, and potential legal issues. Prolonged alcohol abuse during adolescence can lead to long-term health problems and an increased likelihood of developing alcohol use disorders later in life.
Marijuana
Marijuana is the second most commonly used substance by teens. Since the introduction of vaping, THC has become increasingly popular and easy to obtain. Despite popular belief, THC is an addictive drug that can cause dependency or marijuana addiction. Additionally, marijuana may be a gateway drug that leads to more harmful substance experimentation.
Nicotine
Nicotine dependence is another common example of teen addiction. Nicotine is a highly addictive chemical that interferes with brain development, mood, and impulse control.3 Many teens who smoke or use electronic cigarettes become regular users. Additionally, cigarettes contain toxic, cancer-causing chemicals and heavy metals, possibly causing life-long health ailments in developing teens.3
Other Illicit Substances
Teenage illicit substance abuse (i.e., meth, opioids, cocaine) carries significant implications because these drugs pose serious health risks. Methamphetamine abuse can lead to severe physical and mental health consequences, including impaired cognitive function, increased aggression, and potential overdose.
Opioid addiction, including prescription painkillers and illicit opioids like heroin, can result in respiratory problems, teen depression, overdose, and even death. Similarly, cocaine abuse can lead to cardiovascular problems, mental health disorders, and negative social and behavioral consequences.
Would Your Teenager Benefit From Therapy?
Therapy can help teenagers develop self-esteem and feel less overwhelmed by their emotions. Teen Counseling specializes in serving teens, and parents of teenagers. The services start at $65. Complete a brief questionnaire and a therapist will be suggested based on your answers.
Why Do Teens Abuse Drugs & Alcohol?
Addiction in teens may result from various interplaying factors. Modern science classifies addiction as a disease with an underlying neurobiological adaptation that reduces the ability to change behavior. Substance use may also serve as stress relief, social activity, or escape from reality. While teen drug abuse is typically voluntary, this ‘choice’ to misuse substances becomes irrelevant as individuals grow dependent and tolerant.
Possible causes of addiction in teenagers include:
Brain Chemistry
Experts suggest that dopamine, serotonin, and glutamate are the primary chemicals responsible for addiction. When teens abuse drugs, their brains release ‘feel-good’ neurotransmitters in the reward and motivation systems. This immediate sensation of pleasure is fulfilling and easy to obtain, further reinforcing the addictive behavior. As tolerance grows, teens crave these positive feelings, creating a vicious cycle of increased abuse.
Low Self-Esteem
Low self-esteem can contribute to a vulnerable pathway for teenage addiction. Adolescents with low self-esteem often experience inadequacy, insecurity, and a lack of self-worth. They may seek ways to escape these negative emotions or fit in with their peers, leading them to experiment with drugs or engage in substance abuse.
Teen substance use can provide an appealing and temporary sense of confidence, euphoria, or social acceptance. Drug use in teens may relate to coping with negative self-perceptions or enhancing self-image in social situations.
The cycle of addiction can further erode self-esteem as teens experience negative consequences from their substance abuse. Feelings of inadequacy may increase as academics decline, relationships strain, and physical and mental health worsen. Building self-confidence, fostering a positive self-image, and providing healthy coping mechanisms can help reduce the risk of substance abuse and promote overall well-being among adolescents.
Peer Pressure
Peer pressure can significantly contribute to teenage drug and alcohol abuse, exacerbating the risk of addiction in teenagers. During adolescence, the desire to fit in and be accepted by peers is strong, leading many to engage in risky behaviors like substance abuse. Teenagers may feel compelled to participate when surrounded by peers who use drugs or engage in addictive behaviors to gain acceptance or avoid social exclusion.
Additionally, the prefrontal cortex (judgment center of the brain) has not fully developed by adolescence, skewing the ability to make rational decisions. The fear of being left out or labeled “uncool” can push teenagers to make impulsive decisions they may regret. The reinforcement and normalization of substance use within peer groups can create a false sense of security, minimizing the perceived risks associated with addiction.
Co-Occurring Mental Health Conditions
Co-occurring mental health conditions occur when an individual is dually diagnosed with both a mental health and addictive (substance use or processing) disorder. This comorbidity can create vulnerability and increase the likelihood of developing an addiction in teenagers. Adolescents struggling with mental health disorders, such as depression, anxiety, and trauma, are at a higher risk of substance use to self-medicate or cope with emotional pain.
Substance abuse may provide a momentary sense of emotional regulation, confidence, or social connection, leading to a cycle of dependence and addiction. Moreover, substance abuse in youth can worsen mental health symptoms or trigger the onset of new disorders, creating a harmful interplay between substance abuse and mental well-being.
Environmental Factors
Environmental factors play a significant role in the risk of teenage addiction, including family dynamics, peer relationships, school environments, and community aspects. For example, teens may use substances due to the availability and accessibility of drugs, socioeconomic disparities, and exposure to violence.
Moreover, dysfunctional family dynamics, such as a history of substance abuse or neglect, can create an environment that normalizes or exposes teens to addictive behaviors. Lack of parental supervision or support and inconsistent discipline can also increase the likelihood of substance experimentation and addiction.
Genetic Factors
Genetic factors may also play a significant role in teenage addiction. Studies suggest children of parents or grandparents with addictive tendencies have a 50% chance of developing addictions.4
Certain genetic variations can affect how substances are processed in the body, impacting how individuals respond to drugs or alcohol. These genetic factors can influence sensitivity to the rewarding effects of substances, the ability to regulate impulses, and susceptibility to cravings, thus increasing the risk of developing teenage addiction.
Charlie Health - Therapy Once Per Week Isn’t Always Enough
Charlie Health’s virtual mental health program includes curated groups, individual therapy, and family therapy for teens and adults with serious mental health issues. Insurance accepted. Learn More
Effects of Teenage Addiction
Teenage addiction can have profound and far-reaching impacts on physical, mental, and social well-being. The effects of drugs on youth can lead to impaired brain development, organ damage, weakened immune system, and increased risk of accidents or overdose. Addiction can also contribute to developing or exacerbating mental health disorders, cognitive impairments, and poor academic performance.
Addressing teenage addiction promptly and providing comprehensive support to mitigate these detrimental effects is essential for promoting healthier outcomes for youth.
Possible effects of addiction in teenagers include:
- Poor judgment: Teenagers struggling with addiction may exhibit impaired decision-making abilities, leading to risky choices such as engaging in unsafe sexual practices or driving under the influence of substances.
- Mental health conditions: Addiction can contribute to teen anxiety, depression, or psychosis because substances can disrupt brain chemistry and worsen emotional well-being.
- Increased risk of injury: Substance abuse can impair coordination, cognitive function, and judgment, putting teenagers at a higher risk of accidents, falls, and injuries. For example, driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol increases the likelihood of car crashes.
- Physical illnesses: Prolonged substance abuse can lead to various physical health issues in teenagers, including liver damage from alcohol abuse, respiratory problems from smoking or inhaling drugs, and increased susceptibility to infectious diseases due to compromised immune systems.
- Risky behaviors: Teenage addiction can fuel engagement in risky behaviors, such as stealing to support substance use or involvement in criminal activities to obtain drugs.
- Poor academic performance: Addiction can significantly impact academic performance, leading to absenteeism, difficulty concentrating, decreased motivation, and declining grades. These impacts can hinder educational progress and limit future opportunities.
Overcoming Addiction in Teens
Various solutions for drug abuse in teens are available, and addressing teen drug abuse is crucial for development and safety. The earlier intervention takes place, the better. Parents should seek professional guidance, diagnosis, and recommended treatment.
Treatment for addiction problems differs in intensity. Individual or group therapy may prove beneficial for some teenagers struggling with addiction. Intensive outpatient programs offer more structure and support, often incorporating group therapy and additional activities for a set duration each week. Residential treatment or rehab is the most intensive and structured form of treatment. CBT for addiction and EMDR for addiction are common techniques used during treatment.
While dealing with addiction is challenging, help is available for teens and parents alike. There is no easy way to ‘get rid of’ or ‘kick’ an addiction, but seeking professional support makes a difference in recovery. If your teen is ready to start treatment, consider asking their primary doctor for a referral or using an online therapist directory.
How to Prevent Substance Abuse in Teenagers
Preventing substance and drug abuse in teenagers requires a comprehensive approach that includes education, open communication, a supportive environment, and healthy coping strategies. Caregivers and professionals should provide accurate information about the risks and consequences of drug abuse in school and at home. The key word here is “accurate,” as adolescents may intentionally act out if authority figures feed them false facts.
Encouraging open dialogue between parents, caregivers, and teenagers helps create an environment where teens feel comfortable discussing their concerns or curiosity about drugs. Building strong peer relationships, promoting positive role models, and offering opportunities for involvement in healthy activities can also help prevent addiction.
Below are tips for preventing alcohol and drug abuse in teens:
- Establish rules and consequences: Set clear expectations and boundaries regarding substance use and establish consequences for breaking those rules. For example, enforce a curfew and clearly communicate that substance use will result in loss of privileges or other disciplinary actions.
- Be a good role model: Practice what you preach–model healthy behaviors and responsible substance use. For instance, avoid using drugs or alcohol excessively and demonstrate responsible decision-making with substances.
- Encourage open communication: Create a safe and non-judgmental environment where teenagers feel comfortable discussing their thoughts, concerns, and experiences with drugs. Doing so can foster trust and allow for early intervention if needed.
- Be supportive and understanding: Show empathy for common teen issues, provide emotional support, and help them develop healthy coping mechanisms to deal with stress without drugs.
- Monitor any prescription medications: Keep track of and securely store prescription medications to prevent misuse. Dispose of any unused medications properly.
- Educate them about peer pressure: Teach teenagers about the influence of peer pressure and how to respond assertively. Help them develop strategies to resist negative influences and make independent decisions.
- Mention the various reasons not to do drugs: Discuss the numerous negative consequences of drug abuse, including health risks, legal issues, impaired academic performance, damaged relationships, and compromised future opportunities. Emphasize the importance of making choices that prioritize their well-being and future goals.
Would Your Teenager Benefit From Therapy?
Therapy can help teenagers develop self-esteem and feel less overwhelmed by their emotions. Teen Counseling specializes in serving teens, and parents of teenagers. The services start at $65. Complete a brief questionnaire and a therapist will be suggested based on your answers.
Final Thoughts
Addressing and preventing addiction in teens is of utmost importance. Prevention often focuses on mitigating the risk of substance use with healthy familial relationships. Substance abuse in teens can have long-lasting consequences on their physical and mental health, relationships, and overall well-being. By promoting open communication, providing access to resources, and fostering a supportive environment, we can empower teens to make healthier choices, seek help when needed, and break the cycle of addiction.
ChoosingTherapy.com strives to provide our readers with mental health content that is accurate and actionable. We have high standards for what can be cited within our articles. Acceptable sources include government agencies, universities and colleges, scholarly journals, industry and professional associations, and other high-integrity sources of mental health journalism. Learn more by reviewing our full editorial policy.
-
Drug use among youth: facts & statistics. (2013). National Center for Drug Abuse Statistics (NCDAS). Retrieved from https://drugabusestatistics.org/teen-drug-use/
-
Morales, A. M., et al. (2020). Identifying Early Risk Factors for Addiction Later in Life: A Review of Prospective Longitudinal Studies. Current addiction reports, 7(1), 89–98. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40429-019-00282-y
-
Quick Facts on the Risks of E-cigarettes for Kids, Teens, and Young Adults. (2020). CDC. Retrieved from: https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/basic_information/e-cigarettes/Quick-Facts-on-the-Risks-of-E-cigarettes-for-Kids-Teens-and-Young-Adults.html
-
What Causes Addiction? The Science of Drug & Alcohol Addictions. (2020). American Addictions Center. Retrieved from: https://drugabuse.com/causes-of-addiction
We regularly update the articles on ChoosingTherapy.com to ensure we continue to reflect scientific consensus on the topics we cover, to incorporate new research into our articles, and to better answer our audience’s questions. When our content undergoes a significant revision, we summarize the changes that were made and the date on which they occurred. We also record the authors and medical reviewers who contributed to previous versions of the article. Read more about our editorial policies here.
Author: No Change
Reviewer: No Change
Primary Changes: Edited for readability and clarity. Reviewed and added relevant resources. Revised “Examples of Substance Abuse in Teens” and “Why Do Teens Abuse Drugs & Alcohol.” Added “What Is Teenage Addiction,” “Signs of Teen Addiction,” Effects of Teenage Addiction,” and “How to Prevent Substance Abuse in Teenagers.” New material written by Matt Glowiak, PhD, LCPC and reviewed by Kristen Fuller, MD.
Author: Mary Swims, LCSW
Reviewer: Dena Westphalen, PharmD
Your Voice Matters
Can't find what you're looking for?
Request an article! Tell ChoosingTherapy.com’s editorial team what questions you have about mental health, emotional wellness, relationships, and parenting. Our licensed therapists are just waiting to cover new topics you care about!
Leave your feedback for our editors.
Share your feedback on this article with our editors. If there’s something we missed or something we could improve on, we’d love to hear it.
Our writers and editors love compliments, too. :)
Additional Resources
To help our readers take the next step in their mental health journey, ChoosingTherapy.com has partnered with leaders in mental health and wellness. ChoosingTherapy.com is compensated for marketing by the companies included below.
Online Therapy
TeenCounseling (ages 13 -19) – Help your child thrive with professional counseling. Get matched with a licensed therapist who specializes in teens. Discuss your child’s issues and situation. When you approve, the therapist is connected with your child. The therapist interacts with your child over text, phone, and video. Starting for as little as $65 per week. Get Started
DBT-Focused Therapy For Teens
Charlie Health’s virtual intensive mental health program includes curated groups, individual therapy, and family therapy for teens and adults with serious mental health issues. Insurance accepted. Learn More
Eating Disorders and Teenagers
Equip – Worried your child might have an eating disorder? It can be overwhelming when your child is showing eating disorder red flags, but you can help. In fact, your help may be critical to getting them the right treatment. Learn more about the signs of eating disorders and what to do if you’re concerned. Explore Equip’s free guide.
For Further Reading
- How to Find a Great Therapist for Your Teen
- Best Options for Online Therapy for Teens
- Does My Teen Need Counseling? 15 Signs to Know
- Risk Factors for Substance Abuse: What to Watch For
- Substance Abuse Evaluation: What to Expect
- Prescription Drug Abuse: Signs, Types, & Treatments
- Stimulant Use Disorder: Signs, Diagnosis, & Treatment
- What Is A Borg Drink?
- Bible Verses About Addiction
- Trauma & Addiction: What’s the Connection?
- Vaping: What It Is, Side Effects, & Risks
- How to Quit Vaping: Tips
- What Is Paint Huffing? Signs, Symptoms, & What to Know
- CBD & Alcohol: What Happens if You Mix Them?
- What is Brownout Drinking? Signs, Causes, & Dangers
Best Options for Online Therapy for Teens
With so many truly amazing online therapy options for teens, choosing one can be difficult. Some of the most important factors to consider before selecting a company are your budget, who takes your insurance, which ones can answer your questions, and most importantly, who your teen likes the best. Supporting and listening to your teen is crucial for a successful therapy experience.
Best Online Therapy Services
There are a number of factors to consider when trying to determine which online therapy platform is going to be the best fit for you. It’s important to be mindful of what each platform costs, the services they provide you with, their providers’ training and level of expertise, and several other important criteria.