This week is National Drug & Alcohol Fact Week. Scientists were inspired to launch this week to educate young people, especially adolescents, about evidence-based information regarding substance use and addiction. Teenagers typically receive information about drugs and alcohol from social media or their peers who may downplay the harmful or dangerous effects of these substances.
Here are some facts that may surprise you:
1. Alcohol is the most commonly used substance by teenagers. Based on a study conducted by the National Institute on Drug Abuse in 2024, researchers found:
- 12.9% of 8th graders reported that they used alcohol
- 26.1% of 10th graders reported that they used alcohol
- 41.7% of 12th graders reported that they used alcohol
2. While alcohol is the most commonly used substance among adolescents, alcohol use has reached and maintained historic lows since 2021. Science-based education and prevention seem to play a role in this decrease, which is encouraging for future generations!
3. Next to alcohol, marijuana is the primary drug of choice for adolescents. Nicotine and cannabis vaping have increased in popularity in the past several years. Many teens have shown preference to this substance as the device is easy to conceal. According to the National Rehab Hotline, researchers found the following:
- 34.4% of 12th graders reported that they used marijuana in their lifetime.
- Of those that reported using marijuana, 68.2% of the 12th graders reported that they consumed marijuana via vaping in the past year.
4. Many teens do not consider or understand the danger of poly-substance use. Many adolescents may take prescribed stimulants to help with symptoms of ADHD, which can have harmful interactions when mixed with alcohol or marijuana, increasing risk of overdose or injury. It is very important to ask your doctor about what interactions your prescription (or over-the-counter) drugs may have with substances to ensure your safety.
5. Early substance use among children and adolescents increases risk of long-term issues, such as substance addiction, mental health challenges, and even cognitive issues. Parents are encouraged to use science-based evidence to educate their children from an early age about the risks of substance use.
If you, your child, or a loved one are struggling with substance use or you have concern about addictive behaviors, do not hesitate to reach out for help from a Licensed Professional Counselor and your physician. Misuse of substances can have lasting detrimental effects on families. Early education and prevention can save and transform lives.
Sources include:
https://nationalrehabhotline.org/resources/teen-drug-use-statistics
https://nida.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/2024/12/reported-use-of-most-drugs-among-adolescents-remained-low-in-2024
Counselors at Restoring Hope Counseling & Consulting, PLLC are equipped to help adolescents and adults with substance use issues and to assess for issues that may require a higher level of care as well.
Reach out here:
https://www.restoringhopedfw.com/contact
Contributed by
Allie Austin, M.S.