Prescription Drug Use by Adolescents
Posted by Emma Roberts on 30th Aug 2021
Adolescents' prescription drug abuse is often attractive to teenagers over illegal abuse. Simply because these drugs are allowed under doctor's guidance, and many teens soothe into an improper sense of freedom that these drugs are safe for them. Although, these drugs are offered under the doctor's advice for a specific reason. But when these are taken for a more extended period, they can result in severe issues. Many prescription drugs can be pretty addictive as well. Unfortunately, thousands of teenagers every year approach prescription drug abuse and create an addiction problem that can be hard to break. So, let's discuss why teens use prescription drugs and what parents need to know? And how can parents seek help from teen rehab centers?
What is Adolescents Prescription Drug Abuse?
Prescription drug abuse occurs when a teen uses a prescription drug without a prescription or in such a way that it is not instructed to be used to experience a high. Most of the time, teens use prescription drugs to believe that they will help with alertness and studying abilities, giving them the outline as they look. Although any prescription drug can be misused, a few are known for their abilities to create a 'high' that teens crave.
What type of adolescents' prescription drug abuse exists?
Prescription drugs are addictive and can lead to numerous health conditions when used excessively. Teen prescription drug abuse includes the following types of medicine:
●Stimulants-
Many adolescents use stimulant drugs. Stimulants are similar to cocaine in terms of how it increases the heart rate and leads to irregular patterns. However, stimulants can provide the kind of energy needed. These are used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder conditions. Stimulants are addictive and can lead to sudden overdose when consumed in large quantities.
●Opioids-
Opioids are another prescription drug that works much more likely than heroin. Though, they are recommended to people for conditions like pain relief. But many doctors nowadays are trying to limit these drugs; they might be given to patients with severe injuries. However, when opioids are consumed too much, it can lead to physical illness and respiratory issues.
●Depressants-
Some adolescents get addicted to depressants, and these drugs can slow down the thought process, fatigue, and even cause seizures in some people. However, the addiction to depressants is hard to withdraw from as well. These drugs help individuals with insane conditions.
How Adolescents Get Prescription Drugs?
It might seem that prescription drugs are hard to obtain because of how they are controlled. But it is easier to get prescription drugs. Teens often connected with someone who is on prescription and may even have these drugs at their home.
Why Adolescents Use or Misuse prescription drugs?
Various factors can contribute to teen prescription drug use and misuse. However, first-time use often occurs in social settings with accessible substances like alcohol and cigarettes.
But some common factors for the teen prescription drug include-
●A family past of drug misuse.
●Mental health issues, like depression, anxiety, or ADHD.
●Any history of traumatic events such as experiencing a car accident.
●Lower self-esteem or feeling of social rejection.
How to Talk About Prescription Drug Use to Your Teen?
You might likely have multiple conversations with your adolescents about drug and alcohol use. But you have to remember certain things to have such modifications, such as you might have to keep aside your anger.
Talking your teen about addiction-
●Ask your teens view-
You need to avoid lectures, instead listen to your teen's opinion about drugs. Make sure your teen that he or she can be honest with you.
●Discuss reasons about not to use drugs-
Emphasis on things like how the use of drugs can affect your adolescents' things is necessary.
●Consider social media messages-
Media sources like television, social media, and songs that promote or talk about drug use. Teach your teen what he or she should listen and see.
●Talk about ways to refuse peer pressure-
Deliberate with your adolescents about how to turn down offers for drugs.
Symptoms to look in your teen for a prescription drug:
●Sudden changes of friends, eating habits, sleeping patterns, or any physical appearance.
●Irresponsible behaviour, poor judgment, and lack of interest.
●Withdrawing from the family.
●The presence of medicine containers, lack of illness.
Helping adolescents with prescription drug use:
Prescription drug use is a real problem for many teens. If your teen is suffering from addiction, you first need to ensure that prescription drugs are not accessible. After that, seek help for addiction treatment to ensure that your teen can break the addiction cycle.
Conclusion:
If you notice any of the above symptoms in your teen, the primary thing you need to do is talk to them. Get professional help and check them regularly. Focus on their behaviour and speak to them clearly and casually.
Author Bio:
Emma Roberts is a blogger who explores the field of addiction recovery. She provides information and knowledge about different types of addiction treatment programs through her writing. To explore her writings visit https://www.daylightdetox.com/