Drugs (Substance Abuse, Marijuana, Meth)

Youth and teens use alcohol and other drugs for many reasons. They may do it because they want to fit in with friends or certain groups. They may also take a drug because they like the way it makes them feel. Or they may believe that it makes them more grown up. They tend to try new things and take risks and they may take drugs because it seems exciting. Some try these substances only a few times and stop. Others can't control their cravings for them. This is substance abuse.

Youth and teens may experiment with a number of substances, including cigarettes, household chemicals (inhalants), prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines and illegal drugs. Marijuana is the illegal drug that teens use most often.

Drug abuse can lead to serious problems such as poor schoolwork, loss of friends, problems at home and lasting legal problems. Alcohol and drug abuse is a leading cause of teen death or injury related to car accidents, suicides, violence and drowning. Drug abuse can increase the risk of pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), including HIV, because of unprotected sex that occurs while teens are under the influence of drugs and their judgment is impaired.

The resources on this page can help parents understanding drug abuse, how it affects their children and what parents can do to prevent it.

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