Youth drug abuse refers to the misuse or excessive use of substances among individuals who are in their adolescent or young adult years.  It typically involves the use of illegal drugs, misuse of prescription medications, or excessive consumption of alcohol.

Youth drug abuse specifically focuses on individuals who are typically under the age of 21. It includes a range of substances such as illicit drugs (e.g. marijuana, cocaine, ecstasy), prescription medications (e.g. opioids, stimulants), and alcohol.

Drug abuse by youth is a chronic problem throughout the United States. In 2022, 1 out of 3 high school seniors, 1 in 5 sophomores and 1 in 10 8^th graders reported using an illicit substance.

Aside from vaping, the use of illicit drugs by youth has dropped over the past few decades, but more youth are overdosing then ever – largely because of the contamination of the drug supply with fentanyl, as well as the availability of stronger substances.

Why Do Youth Engage in Drug Abuse?

• Peer Pressure: Adolescents often experience pressure from friends or classmates to experiment with drugs as a way to fit in or be accepted.
• Curiosity: Teenagers are naturally curious and may try drugs to explore new experiences or sensations.
• Stress and Coping: Teens may use drugs as a way to escape from stress, problems at home or school, or to cope with emotional pain and trauma.
• Parental Influence: The behavior of parents or guardians can significantly impact a teen’s likelihood of using drugs. If parents use drugs, youth may view it as acceptable or normal behavior.
• Accessibility: Easy access to drugs from peers, family members or other means, can make it more likely for youth to experiment.
• Media Factors: Media portrayal of drug use can influence a youth’s perception and decision to use them.

Common Risk Factors for Youth Drug Abuse

• A family history of substance abuse
• A mental or behavioral health condition such as depression or attention deficit disorder
• Impulsive or risk-taking behavior
• Low self-esteem or feelings of social rejection

Consequences of Youth Drug Abuse

• Drug Dependence: Some youth who misuse drugs are at increased risk of substance abuse disorder.
• Poor Judgement: Drug use by youth is associated with poor judgement in social and personal interactions.
• Sexual Activity: Drug use is associated with high-risk sexual activity and unplanned pregnancy.
• Mental Health Disorders: Drug use can increase the risk of mental health disorders, such as depression and anxiety.
• Impaired Driving: Driving under the influence of any drug affects driving skills, putting the driver, passengers and others at risk.
• Changes in School Performance: Substance abuse can result in poor grades, attendance, or experience in school.

Warning Signs of Youth Drug Abuse

• Sudden or extreme change in friends, eating habits, sleeping patterns, physical appearance, requests for money, and school performance
• Breaking rules or withdrawing from the family
• Irresponsible behavior, poor judgement and general lack of interest
• The presence of medical containers, despite a lack of illness, or drug paraphernalia in a teen’s room

Prevention of Youth Drug Abuse

The prevention of youth drug abuse needs a collaborative effort involving schools, parents, law enforcement, healthcare providers, community organization, peer involvement and youth role models.

• Life skill education programs (e.g. D.A.R.E.) may be provided in schools by School Resource Officers or other law enforcement personnel.
• Provide drug abuse awareness forums for parents to include topics such as:

• Drug education programs in schools
• Parents set boundaries and consequences
• Student leaders – Peer influence
• Drug abuse training for school coaches and influencers
• Enforcement of drug-related laws
• Teach youth how to deal with pressure

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