Risk Factors That Lead to Adolescent Substance Abuse

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Medically Verified: July 9, 2024

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All of the information on this page has been reviewed and verified by a certified addiction professional.

Risk Factors That Lead to Adolescent Substance Abuse

Risk Factors That Lead to Adolescent Substance Abuse

Addiction is a complex condition that stems from a person’s genetics, experiences, behaviors, and more. Millions of people in the United States live with substance use disorder (SUD). People with SUD often require significant treatment and ongoing support to remain sober. 

Early intervention is the best way to help someone overcome addiction. The longer substance use disorder remains untreated, the more difficult it can be to treat it. Identifying adolescent substance abuse and seeking treatment can help people avoid life-altering–sometimes life-threatening– complications. 

Understanding the risk factors that may lead to adolescent substance abuse can help you identify it and seek treatment. This article will outline some of the most common risk factors for teen drug abuse. You will learn:

  • What may contribute to teen substance abuse
  • What factors can help to prevent teen drug use
  • What to expect from teen substance abuse treatment programs
  • Where to find comprehensive addiction treatment and support. 

Reach out to the specialists at The Living Room now to explore our comprehensive treatment programs. We offer teen and adolescent addiction treatment programs, as well as support for the entire family. Contact us now to learn more or schedule an intake appointment. 

Risk Factors for Adolescent Substance Abuse

Research links adolescent drug abuse to many long-term mental and physical health problems.[1] Teens who use drugs are more likely to engage in other high-risk behaviors, including IV drug use, unsafe sexual behaviors, and being involved in illegal activities. 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have identified several factors that put teens at higher risk for substance abuse.[2] Here is an overview of those risk factors. 

Family history of substance abuse

Researchers believe there is a genetic aspect to addiction. Teens and young adults with a family history of substance abuse may be at increased risk of developing substance use disorder (SUD).[3] 

Family acceptance of illicit drug use

Family attitudes toward illicit drug use can shape a child’s viewpoints. Parents and caregivers who express acceptance of prescription drug or illicit drug abuse may pass these views down to their children. This can increase the risk of teen drug experimentation and addiction. 

Lack of parental monitoring

Adolescents who do not have consistent monitoring may have more freedom to experiment with addictive substances. A lack of parental supervision is a known risk factor for teen drug use. 

Peer substance use

Kids who spend time with peers who use drugs or alcohol are more likely to use drugs than kids whose friends do not abuse substances. They may feel pressured to try drugs or may have more access to addictive substances.[4]

Poor academic achievement

Kids who do not perform well in school may be more at risk for developing substance abuse or addiction. They may feel discouraged or stressed, or may have untreated mental illnesses that contribute to their poor academic performance. Teens who do not feel connected to school may turn to drugs or alcohol.

Mental health conditions

Some adolescents and teens may use drugs or alcohol to mask or manage symptoms of a mental health condition. Teens may rely on alcohol or drugs to feel more comfortable in social situations, to reduce depression, or to manage anxiety.[5] 

Family rejection of gender identity or sexual orientation

Family rejection can cause distress, anxiety, depression, and isolation. Teens may self-medicate their emotional pain with drugs and alcohol. 

Parental substance use

Parents who abuse drugs or alcohol may set an example for their children. Teens living with a parent who abuses substances may have a more accepting attitude toward drug use. They may also have more access to addictive substances, including alcohol and prescription pills. 

Childhood sexual abuse

Childhood sexual abuse, physical abuse, neglect, and other traumatic situations can increase the risk of teen substance abuse.[6] Living with the effects of trauma can lead teens to self-medicate with drugs and alcohol. 

Teen substance use can become life-threatening. Teens who do not get treatment for substance use disorder (SUD) are more likely to become adults who struggle with addiction.

Early identification and treatment of adolescent substance abuse is crucial. Contact the specialists at The Living Room to learn more about the roots of teen drug abuse. 

What Can Adults Do to Prevent Adolescent Substance Abuse?

Not all teens who have risk factors for substance abuse end up using drugs. There are several protective factors that can reduce the risk of substance use. These include:

  • Parental support and engagement
  • Parental disapproval of substance use
  • Connectedness at school
  • Parental monitoring

If a teen in your life is using drugs or alcohol, you must get help as soon as possible. Treatment for teen drug abuse includes:

  • Physical and behavioral health care
  • Medically-supported detox programs
  • Education and counseling
  • Family engagement and therapy, when appropriate
  • Individual and group counseling
  • Aftercare planning and support

Find Help Now

If your teen needs treatment for substance abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Compassionate, effective treatment is available at The Living Room. Contact our intake team to learn about our programs or schedule an intake evaluation. 

References:

  1. Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention: Consequences of youth substance abuse
  2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): High-Risk Substance Use Among Youth
  3. National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA): New NIH study reveals shared genetic markers underlying substance use disorders
  4. National Institute of Health (NIH): Family Process and Peer Influences on Substance Use by Adolescents
  5. National Institute of Health (NIH): Adolescent Depression and Substance Use: The Protective Role of Prosocial Peer Behavior
  6. Science Direct: The relationship between sexual and physical abuse and substance abuse consequences

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More than anybody, we understand that reaching out for help can be difficult. If you have any questions about our programs, services or the recovery process itself; please connect with us now. We are here to provide guidance and support… every step of the way.

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