Drug abuse at any age is never healthy, but it is especially unhealthy for adolescent children. Not only is it illegal, but drug abuse in teens can cause permanent damage to their developing minds and bodies. Substance abuse can ruin a person’s life before it has hardly begun, and influence them to make poor decisions.

With so many risks, why do teenagers abuse drugs anyway? Why do some knowingly take the risks or refuse to seek help that is readily available?

There are various reasons for different individuals, but many are similar. For some, drugs are a gateway to maintain relationships to a community. For others, it is a coping mechanism the same way as it is for adults. But for some teenagers, there is a thrill to breaking the rules and living life on the edge.

To Fit In

Adolescence has proven to be one of the most difficult phases of growing up, with emotional instability and developing hormones. Some teenagers may lose friends or feel left out of social activities. Group activities and a sense of belonging are particularly important to teenagers as they reach adulthood.

This is because humans are animals that thrive and live off of social interaction. Very few can live healthy, solitary lives and teenagers are among the best examples of this type of behavior. They feel the need to fit in with a common interest, be it a hobby, sport, class, or group activity.

Unfortunately, sometimes these interests tend to be drugs. Many teenagers may find themselves in the wrong crowd and only associate through the common abuse of drugs and alcohol. They may even be fully aware that what they are doing is wrong but continue for the need of belonging.

To Feel and Do Better

There are many common reasons that people abuse drugs, and teenagers are no different. With the many hurdles of growing up as a teenager, many often feel depressed, lost, or confused. Just like adults, teenagers may turn to drugs for answers or a means of escape from real life.

In some cases, drugs may make a person feel superior or better about themselves. They may inspire the confidence they lack or instill a feeling of instant gratification. During such a complicated time period, substance abuse may seem like the easiest solution.

To Experiment

As adults, we may look back at our life as a teenager with shame. Perhaps we made choices we regret, or were “stupid” and did not know better. In some cases, as teenagers, we were simply bored. For teenagers today, this is still the case.

In adolescence, the brain undergoes a crucial and intense development period. Young teens learn and develop strong emotional feelings and how to handle them, and encounter many unfamiliar experiences. To cope with these feelings, they may knowingly make irrational or wild choices to entertain or out of sheer boredom. Others find thrill in rebellion and breaking the rules, or are curious about what is considered forbidden.

While it is important to discipline teenagers, it is also important to educate them about the dangers and risks of drugs. Giving support in such an intricate time of life is critical in ensuring healthy growth. Finally, it is imperative to let your child know they have your support and love as they grow up.

If you or a loved one know a teenager struggling with drug or alcohol addiction, contact a local Treatment & Rehab alternative in Tennessee. You might be interested in Discovery Place’s own treatment center alternatives, such as our 30 Day Residential Addiction Alternative Recovery Program or our Long Term Alternative Recovery Program in Burns, Tennessee. Call us for a free consultation at 1-800-725-0922.

Testimonials

  • Discovery Place was the answer for my son. He did the 90 day and then the step down program and sober living. We give this organization 10 stars. They met my son where he was …emotionally, mentally, physically. They helped him put his life back on track. Discovery Place employees care about their guests. If your son, brother, nephew, grandson or husband needs excellent supportive care THIS is indeed the facility.

    Kim Morton
    Alumni Parent
  • I have remained sober and it is because of DP. DP is the best place there is, hands down. I keep everyone there in my prayers, and I encourage everyone there to take what they are practicing and do it in their lives, after.

    Roy Mantelli
    Alumni
  • Over the past year, I’ve been putting into actin what Discovery Place taught me, and I have experienced a complete perspective change of the world, and the people in it. I get to be a man of service and love today, and for that I am grateful to Discovery Place.

    Matt Kassay
    Alumni
  • Discovery Place means the world to me. They showed me the tools that I’ve tried to use everyday in my life to think less often of myself, and more frequently of others. I am learning to lend a hand when I am able and to have a honest and humble relationship with God and the people around me. Not only am I clean and sober, but also I am happy and fulfilled.

    Tommy Parker
    Alumni
  • Discovery Place and the men who work there made recovery attractive, and more importantly, fun. There is strength in the struggle. I am forever grateful for my time at Discovery Place.

    Creed McClellan
    Alumni
  • When I got to Discovery Place my whole life was in shambles, but I didn’t know it. I spent 6 months in their programs, participating in all three phases, and was met with kindness and love all along the way. It is unbelievable to me, where I am now relative to where I was when I arrived at DP.

    Lance Duke
    Alumni
  • I can never say enough good things about Discovery Place and the people who work there. Before checking in to DP, I was out of options and out of answers. Fortunately, Discovery Place has a solution. Taking suggestions from the staff at DP saved my life, and as a result, I’m now more content and hopeful about life. I’m grateful for Discovery Place showing me how to live a healthy life so that I can become a better man and help the next guy.”

    Tyler Buckingham
    Alumni

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