What are the common reasons for teenagers to use drugs?

Drug use among teenagers can have multiple and complex causes, often stemming from a mix of social, psychological, and biological factors. Understanding these motivations can help parents and caregivers intervene effectively and provide the necessary support. It is important to note that the teenage brain continues to grow and develop until the mid-twenties, particularly the prefrontal cortex area responsible for decision-making. Therefore, drug use at this age can hinder developmental processes and affect their ability to make sound decisions, which increases the likelihood of engaging in risky behaviors [1].

Why do teenagers resort to drugs?

There are several common reasons that drive teenagers to use drugs, including:

• Desire for belonging: Teenagers may use drugs to feel accepted by friends or peers who use drugs [1].
• Seeking pleasure: Some drugs can cause a feeling of euphoria or pleasure, which attracts teenagers to try them [1].
• Coping with negative emotions: Some teenagers may suffer from depression, anxiety, stress-related disorders, or physical pain, and they turn to drugs as a way to alleviate these feelings [1].
• Performance enhancement: Some teenagers may use stimulants to improve academic performance or anabolic steroids to improve athletic performance [1].
• Experimentation and adventure: Teenagers often want to try new things, especially those they consider exciting or daring [1].

Risk factors that increase the likelihood of drug use

There are several factors that may increase the risk of teenagers using drugs, including:

• Difficult early childhood experiences: Such as abuse, sexual assault, or other forms of trauma [1].
• Genetic factors: Genes may play a role in an individual's susceptibility to addiction [1].
• Prenatal exposure to drugs or alcohol: Exposure to harmful substances during pregnancy can affect brain development and increase future risks [1].
• Lack of parental supervision: A lack of sufficient parental control or weak monitoring can leave teenagers more vulnerable to negative external influences [1].
• Having friends who use drugs: Peer influence plays a major role in teenage behavior, and having friends who use drugs increases the probability of engaging in them [1].

How can parents help with prevention?

Prevention of drug use and addiction is possible, and preventive programs that include families, schools, communities, and the media can prevent or reduce drug use. Parents can help prevent their children from using drugs by:

1. Good communication: Having frequent, informal conversations with teenagers about substance use can be more effective than one big conversation. Building trust increases the likelihood of them not misusing alcohol or drugs [2].
2. Encouragement and building self-confidence: Helping children build self-confidence and a strong sense of self [1].
3. Teaching problem-solving skills: Equipping teenagers with the tools needed to handle challenges and make correct decisions [1].
4. Setting clear boundaries: Teaching children self-control and responsibility, providing safe boundaries, and showing care [1].
5. Supervision and monitoring: Helping parents identify developing problems, promote safety, and stay involved in their children's lives [1].
6. Knowing your children's friends: Understanding the teenager's social circle can help identify potential influences [1].

What should you do if you notice warning signs?

If you notice changes in your child's behavior, such as a loss of interest in favorite activities, changes in eating, sleeping, or personal hygiene habits, spending time with different friends, or problems at school, it is important to talk to them [2]. Be prepared to listen to what your child says about alcohol and drug use, and take their feelings and concerns seriously. If your child tells you they are struggling, show them your love and offer support, and seek help from a healthcare provider or look for substance use disorder treatment services in your area [2]. For more information on this topic, you can visit Drugs and Teenagers: A Parents' Guide to Protection and Communication (Arabic).

Medical references

• Drugs and Young People
• 8 tips for talking (and listening) to your teens about drugs and alcohol