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Drug use among teenagers is a serious problem in the United States. It’s alarming to note that prevalent use of illicit drugs starts as early as the 8th grade. According to a survey conducted by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) in 2010, around 21% of high school seniors had smoked marijuana in the past month when the survey was conducted. In the same survey, it found that almost 1.6 million youths above the age of 12 had used cocaine and crack. The use of inhalants in the past year among 8th graders was estimated to be around 8 %.
Teenagers can be exposed to illicit drugs via movies, books, music or more significantly, their peers. In most situations, they start by drinking and smoking cigarettes. Since they are already doing something which is illegal, they may be feeling that they are already above the law, which opens the door to illicit drugs. Many youths try these drugs out of curiosity but a good number also believe that drugs can make them happy, more active, more popular, more athletic, and so on. However, it’s just an escape. Ultimately, they still have to face their problems and situations. The use of illicit drugs impairs judgment, and it’s especially true for youths. A lot of problems like accidents due to driving under the influence, unwanted pregnancies, suicides, crimes, and poor academic results are directly related to the use of illicit drugs, not just among youths but adults, too. Let’s take a look at some of the most commonly used drugs among teens.
Marijuana is a popular gateway drug because it’s often the first drug which is used before other stronger drugs are introduced. It’s commonly smoked in joints, pipes or bongs. Some people even brew marijuana as a tea or mix it in their food. Marijuana use may cause paranoia, anxiety, hunger, impaired judgment, memory, and perception. People who are high on marijuana may appear dizzy so they may have trouble walking and silly so they may giggle or laugh for apparently no reason. They may have extremely red bloodshot eyes and possibly loss of short-term memory. Parents who have teenagers who use marijuana should try to talk to them and explain the dangers they are facing. Then, get them to go for counseling or join a support group.
Cocaine can be injected or snorted through the nose. Crack is made from cocaine and it’s smoked. The use of cocaine provides the user with an instant feeling of energy and power. Some of the signs that a person is on cocaine are bloodshot eyes, frequent nose-bleeds, sudden weight-loss, dishonesty, rapid speech, quick to anger, changes in eating and sleeping habits, and paranoia. Cocaine is highly addictive so it’s best to get professional help if you suspect your teen is a cocaine user.
Inhalants are sniffed or huffed to provide an instant high or rush. Some inhalants are gasoline, glues, dry cleaning fluids, paint thinners, correction fluid, and spray paint. The use of inhalants can cause giddiness, confusion, and even death. Some signs of inhalant abuse include chemical odor of clothing or breath, stains on clothing, face or hands, slurred speech, disoriented appearance, loss of appetite, nausea, depression, and hidden empty paint containers or similar objects. Talk to your child if you think he or she is using inhalants. Then, try to send the child to a treatment center.
There are many other types of illicit drugs like heroin, crystal meth, prescription drugs, hallucinogens, tranquilizers, and so on. Parents and teachers can play an important role in reducing the use of these drugs in youths. Check out these links for more information.
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