The use of drugs and alcohol by teens continues to be a problem in our
society. Being a teenager means going through rapid physical and
emotional changes. A teen may choose drugs and alcohol as a way of
coping with these changes or as a result of peer pressure and a need to fit
in. It is important to remember that drugs and alcohol only add to
problems, they don't solve them. Signs of a possible problem with drugs
or alcohol may include a drop in grades, a change of friends, stealing
money, needing drugs or alcohol to have fun, drinking or doing drugs
alone, a rapid personality change, or a change in favorite activities.
Open communication between teens and their parents is an effective
way to calm parental fears and educate teens about the dangers of drug
use. Teens need to know they can get quality, non-judgmental advice
from their parents, and parents need to know that their teen will listen
to their advice and make good decisions. For further information about
teen substance abuse, talk to a counseling professional.