Key Takeaways for Parents
- Identify the Signs: Distinguish between normal teen behavior and red flags like persistent withdrawal, drastic mood swings, or physical changes.
- Understand the Brain: The adolescent brain is still developing, making it uniquely vulnerable to impulsivity and the effects of substances.
- Take Action: Use the 30-day action plan to assess behavior, initiate conversations, and schedule professional evaluations.
- Choose the Right Care: Evaluate treatment options ranging from outpatient support to residential care based on safety and severity.
- Family Involvement: Active parental participation and a supportive home environment are critical success factors for recovery.
Understanding the Connection Between Teen Wellness and Substance Use
Understanding how teen wellness and substance use interact starts with recognizing just how common these challenges are for families. Recent findings reveal that nearly 7.2% of teens use illicit drugs each month, with substances like alcohol, marijuana, and vaping remaining persistent concerns[1].
At the same time, 40% of U.S. high school students share that they’ve felt persistent sadness or hopelessness in the past year, showing a deep connection between emotional struggles and risky behaviors[2]. Research points out that when adolescents experience difficulties in wellness—such as stress at home, unmet emotional needs, or social pressures—the risk of substance use increases. This approach is ideal for parents and caregivers seeking to understand the root factors shaping teen choices.
“Patterns of anxiety, low self-esteem, and unhealthy peer influences often appear alongside substance use issues.” [5]
Readers might be wondering how everyday wellness ties into such serious risks. Next, we’ll explore why the unique wiring of the adolescent brain makes teens especially susceptible to both wellness disruptions and the lure of substances.
Why Teen Brains Are Uniquely Vulnerable
When it comes to teen wellness and substance use, one of the most striking scientific findings is how quickly the adolescent brain changes—especially in areas that control judgment, emotions, and impulse control. Unlike fully developed adult brains, the teenage brain is still building critical pathways for self-regulation and decision-making, making teens especially sensitive to risky behaviors and external influences[5].
This stage of brain development explains why even well-supported teens might experiment with vaping or alcohol when surrounded by strong social pressures. Research shows that stress, trauma, and inconsistent routines can further disrupt healthy brain growth, underscoring why the right support at this age makes such a difference[6].
How Brain Development Affects Decision-Making
A quick assessment for parents and caregivers: Ask yourself, does your teen often act on impulse, struggle with planning ahead, or seem swayed by peers in risky situations? These are common signs of developing brain networks—especially in the prefrontal cortex, which handles reasoning and self-control[5].
For teenagers, this area is still ‘under construction,’ so emotional reactions or peer influence can outweigh logical thinking. This means everyday choices—like trying vaping or skipping healthy routines—are more likely to be based on short-term feelings than long-term outcomes. Research highlights that ongoing brain growth leaves teens especially open to experimenting with substances when under stress or pressure[6].
The Long-Term Impact of Early Substance Use
Early substance use in teens has consequences that can last a lifetime. Studies reveal that even moderate use of alcohol, nicotine, or marijuana during adolescence can affect brain development, leading to problems with memory, attention, and learning that may persist into adulthood[6].
The developing brain is more easily changed by substances, which means teens face a higher risk of long-term challenges compared to adults. Risk factors like repeated substance use before age 16 are especially concerning, as this is a critical time for the brain’s growth and self-regulation abilities[6].
The Two-Way Relationship: Wellness and Substances
A simple tool for understanding the two-way relationship between wellness and substances is a cause-and-effect checklist. Ask yourself: Are emotional low points making your teen more likely to experiment, or is early substance use worsening their ability to handle stress?
In the context of teen wellness and substance use, this relationship is dynamic—emotional distress (like anxiety or family conflict) can spark experimentation with substances, while ongoing use can then undermine self-esteem, coping skills, and even brain development[5]. Studies reveal that teens who face persistent sadness are at greater risk for substance problems, and those who develop habits around alcohol, vaping, or cannabis often see declining wellness soon after[2].
How Emotional Struggles Lead to Substance Use
A practical tool for parents: Consider a mood-to-choice log—track when your teen feels stressed, lonely, or anxious, and note if those times align with experimenting or using substances. Emotional struggles like depression or chronic sadness increase a teen’s risk for substance use, as teens may turn to alcohol, vaping, or marijuana to escape tough feelings or fit in socially[5].
Studies reveal that boys struggling with depression are twelve times more likely to develop alcohol dependence, while girls are four times more likely, highlighting how closely emotional wellness and substance use are linked[5]. This strategy suits families wanting to understand if shifting moods and social stressors could be underlying triggers for new habits.
When Substance Use Creates Wellness Challenges
A quick check-in tool: Has your teen’s grades, sleep, or motivation suffered since they started using substances regularly? This trend isn’t just coincidence. Ongoing use of alcohol, marijuana, or nicotine often disrupts sleep, lowers self-esteem, and can harm areas of the brain tied to attention and emotion—making it tougher for teens to handle stress and rebound from setbacks[6].
Research shows that teen substance use can spark a downward cycle where declining physical wellness goes hand in hand with slipping confidence and social withdrawal, fueling additional challenges with anxiety or sadness[5]. For families, noticing these connections early allows for changes that support both healthy routines and stronger wellness overall.
Self-Assessment: Recognizing Warning Signs in Your Teen
A practical checklist can help families spot early symptoms of trouble. Self-assessment starts by looking for shifts in mood, behavior, or social circles—these can signal challenges with overall wellness or the influence of substances. Studies reveal that 40% of U.S. high school students have experienced persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness within the past year, which can raise the likelihood of experimenting with drugs or alcohol[2].
This approach is ideal for parents hoping to intervene early, as noticing unusual patterns in sleep, schoolwork, or friendships may catch problems before they escalate. If warning signs show up, consider the next steps for support and professional guidance.
Behavioral and Emotional Red Flags
Behavioral and emotional patterns offer some of the clearest early warnings. A quick checklist for families:
- Has your teen become unusually irritable, withdrawn, or quick to anger?
- Are you noticing major mood swings, social isolation, or frequent arguments that weren’t typical before?
These changes often signal challenges with general wellness or may point to increased risk factors like anxiety and stress. Studies reveal that 40% of high schoolers report lasting feelings of sadness or hopelessness, a finding closely linked to both substance use risk and emotional well-being[2].
Changes in Mood, Sleep, and Social Patterns
A quick tool for families is to keep a weekly log: Has your teen’s mood shifted from cheerful to withdrawn, or do their sleep patterns look different than before? Notice if your teen is sleeping much more or less, struggling to fall asleep, or often appears tired during the day—these shifts may be early clues of stress, sadness, or the influence of substances.
Readers might be wondering if changes in social circles matter; studies reveal that teens experiencing lasting sadness or hopelessness are more likely to isolate themselves or choose new friends, sometimes to hide early substance use[2]. Monitoring mood swings, disrupted sleep, and shifts in social activity can give families a realistic window into potential risks.
Academic Decline and Loss of Interest
Academic struggles are often one of the earliest flags. If you notice your teen’s grades dropping, assignments going unfinished, or a sudden lack of interest in activities they once enjoyed, these shifts may be warning signs—not just typical teenage ups and downs.
Research shows that persistent sadness or hopelessness, seen in 40% of high school students, is closely linked with both school disengagement and increased risk of substance use[2]. Tracking academic performance and extracurricular participation alongside other wellness concerns can help caregivers identify when these signs deserve a closer look.
Physical and Environmental Indicators
Physical and environmental signs often offer the earliest clues that a teen may be struggling with substance use and underlying wellness challenges. To make things simple, families can use a two-part review:
- Physical Check: Look for noticeable changes such as sudden weight fluctuations, bloodshot eyes, or frequent headaches—these physical symptoms can sometimes link to alcohol, vaping, or marijuana use[6].
- Environmental Check: Think about the spaces and social groups your teen is spending time in: environments where peer pressure and risky behaviors are common raise risk for developing issues connected to teen wellness and substance use[5].
Physical Signs Parents Should Monitor
A handy checklist for families: Watch for sudden changes in your teen’s appearance that don’t seem to match their usual habits. Key physical signs include unexplained weight loss or gain, frequent bloodshot eyes, persistent cough, or new marks on their arms and hands[6].
Teens using substances like alcohol, nicotine, or marijuana might also complain more about headaches, stomachaches, or feeling unusually tired, especially when these symptoms show up alongside shifts in mood or social behavior. These physical red flags aren’t always proof of substance use—sometimes they connect to other wellness issues—but when you see several changes together, it’s worth a closer look.
Peer Groups and Environmental Risk Factors
A decision tool for families: Map out where your teen spends time and who they associate with most. Environments filled with frequent peer pressure, unsupervised gatherings, or exposure to substance use raise the risk for trouble[5].
Studies reveal that teens who join groups with permissive attitudes about vaping or drinking, or who spend time in unsupervised settings, face higher chances of experimenting due to social influence and available access to substances[5]. Regularly checking in about your teen’s social life, and encouraging involvement in positive clubs or sports, helps build resilience against peer-driven risks.
Decision Framework: Addressing Teen Wellness and Substance Use
A structured decision framework helps families move from recognizing signs of trouble to choosing the right level of help. Here, a step-by-step checklist is valuable: list out your teen’s recent behavior changes, consider any physical or social warning signs, and identify whether their daily life has been disrupted.
Research shows the options for supporting teen wellness span from outpatient sessions for those with mild changes, to intensive programs when safety or functioning are seriously compromised[6]. Each path requires a different commitment of time and family involvement, with some options asking for weekly visits and others providing round-the-clock care.
Understanding Treatment Options for Teens
When families notice signs of concern, understanding treatment options can feel overwhelming. A practical first step is mapping out care levels. Choosing a path that matches your teen’s unique challenges helps increase the likelihood of successful recovery, whether the concern is early vaping, ongoing alcohol misuse, or broader adolescent well-being.
From Outpatient to Residential: Care Levels Explained
A simple tool for families is to match the level of care to your teen’s needs using the comparison below:
| Level of Care | Typical Structure | Best Suited For |
|---|---|---|
| Outpatient | 1-2 sessions per week | Teens with stable daily routines and mild behavioral changes. |
| Intensive Outpatient (IOP) | Several sessions per week | Teens whose daily life is slipping, but who do not require full-time supervision. |
| Residential | Live-in (weeks to months) | Teens where safety, health, or family life are seriously at risk. |
Studies reveal that teens facing moderate to severe substance use or ongoing health challenges often benefit most from intensive or residential options, as these environments reduce outside triggers and create space for recovery[6]. Knowing the differences helps parents advocate for the right plan based on severity, safety, and overall recovery goals.
Evidence-Based Approaches That Work for Adolescents
A quick decision tool for families is to look for programs using strategies proven to boost wellness and reduce substance use among adolescents. The most effective approaches typically include family-based therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and skills training that focus on building healthy routines, managing cravings, and improving decision-making.
Studies show that these evidence-based interventions lead to better outcomes for teens facing challenges with substance use and emotional well-being[6]. Family involvement stands out—programs that engage parents and caregivers in the process help sustain changes long after treatment ends.
Evaluating Treatment Programs and Providers
A step-by-step evaluation checklist helps families compare treatment programs. Start by reviewing program accreditation and asking if staff are trained to work specifically with adolescents. Request details on how programs tailor care plans for substance use and wellness, as approaches that fit adults may not address the unique pressures teens face.
Studies show that programs integrating family involvement and offering evidence-based therapies—like cognitive behavioral therapy—contribute to better recovery and ongoing well-being for teens[6]. Look for centers that clearly outline their safety procedures, communication policies, and the ways progress is measured.
Critical Questions to Ask Treatment Centers
A handy evaluation tool for families: Prepare a list of questions before contacting any center. Start by asking if the program is accredited and whether staff have advanced training in working with adolescents. Inquire about their approach to both substance use and supporting overall teen wellness—programs should personalize treatment, not offer generic one-size-fits-all solutions.
Research shows that programs using evidence-based therapies like cognitive behavioral therapy and involving families have the best outcomes for adolescents[6]. Ask how the center tracks progress, communicates with parents, and adapts care if needs change mid-treatment.
Insurance, Costs, and Financial Planning
A practical financial planning tool for families: Create a checklist of your insurance benefits, coverage limits, and any provider network requirements before seeking help. Insurance policies vary widely in what they cover, with some plans offering partial coverage for outpatient or intensive programs, while others might require pre-authorization or only approve care at specific facilities.
Research shows that gaps in coverage or benefit limits can create extra barriers for families trying to access quality wellness support for their teens[6]. If insurance coverage is limited, many programs offer payment plans or can suggest community resources, so asking about these options early helps families plan for ongoing, sustainable care.
Your Next 30 Days: Action Plan for Parents
A 30-day action plan gives families a hands-on structure to address concerns around teen wellness and substance use. Start by using a weekly checklist to spot changes in mood, sleep, and peer groups, as research shows early identification leads to better outcomes when substance use and wellness troubles appear together[2].
The plan breaks the month into two phases: assessment and open conversations in the first two weeks, and building support and taking action in weeks three and four. Studies reveal that teens benefit most when families combine regular check-ins, professional guidance, and shifts in daily routines—all of which can break cycles of risk while supporting general wellness and resilience[5].
Week 1-2: Assessment and Initial Conversations
A straightforward tool for parents beginning a 30-day action plan is a two-week tracking checklist: note changes in your teen’s mood, sleep, energy, friend groups, and routine each day. Research shows that quickly identifying these small shifts can lead to better outcomes[2].
During this first phase, the focus is on observation and starting open conversations—don’t rush to judgment, but create space for your teen to share their side. Make time for daily, low-pressure check-ins, and write down patterns you notice, especially if stress or unusual behaviors seems to cluster around certain people or situations.
How to Talk to Your Teen About Concerns
A conversation guide for parents: Start by choosing a calm moment—avoid launching into tough topics right after conflict or when your teen is distracted. Open with supportive statements, like noticing changes in their mood or energy, rather than accusations.
Studies reveal that when parents use open-ended questions and genuinely listen, teens report feeling safer to share concerns around wellness and risky behaviors, including those connected to substance use[5]. Use phrases such as, “I’ve noticed you’re more withdrawn lately—how are you feeling?” and let them respond without interruption.
Scheduling Professional Evaluations
A concrete tool for families ready to take the next step is to build a short list of local providers and schedule professional evaluations within the second week of the action plan. Look for pediatricians, adolescent wellness clinics, or licensed counselors who have experience with teen wellness and substance use—most can complete an initial assessment in just one or two visits.
Studies reveal that more than half of U.S. adolescents have discussed their health with a professional in the past year, but unmet needs remain for about 20% of families[2]. Don’t wait for a crisis; a timely evaluation can clarify whether home-based support is enough, or if expert guidance is needed.
Week 3-4: Taking Action and Building Support
A two-week action checklist can help families move from assessment to meaningful change: schedule regular family times, put consistent routines in place, and seek community support for both your teen and yourself. Industry experts highlight that ongoing family engagement, paired with changes in daily structure, is key to progress[5].
During weeks three and four, focus on open follow-up conversations: check in about new habits (like sleep, nutrition, recreation), attend any scheduled wellness appointments as a team, and address setbacks with steady encouragement rather than harsh discipline. Even small steps—such as joining a support group, setting device-free dinners, or reinforcing positive behavior—can create a ripple effect for adolescent wellness.
Initiating Treatment and Family Involvement
A practical tool for parents in weeks three and four is a family involvement checklist—aim to attend treatment sessions together when possible, communicate regularly with your teen’s provider, and set clear, supportive goals at home. Research underscores that active family engagement in care leads to better sustained recovery and well-being for teens[6].
This approach is ideal when families are ready to move from simply observing problems to building teamwork around solutions—offering encouragement, learning coping skills as a unit, and celebrating small wins together. Industry leaders find that wellness-oriented routines (like family dinners, joint outings, or shared hobbies) reinforce the skills your teen is developing in treatment and can boost resilience against relapse or setbacks[5].
Creating a Home Environment That Supports Recovery
A hands-on checklist for building a recovery-supportive home includes three essentials: establish clear and consistent expectations, create wellness-focused routines, and make your home a safe, substance-free space. Prioritize accessible, open communication—dedicate time each week for device-free meals or activities, so your teen feels supported without pressure.
Research highlights that having healthy routines, such as predictable sleep schedules and balanced nutrition, can strengthen resilience and make it easier for teens facing struggles around substance use or stress to bounce back[5]. Remove or securely store any alcohol, vaping products, or medications that could present temptation, while also modeling positive stress management through shared hobbies or family walks.
Finding Specialized Teen Treatment in Texas and New Mexico
A location checklist is a valuable starting point for families seeking specialized help for teen wellness and substance use concerns in Texas or New Mexico. In these regions, dedicated adolescent programs are available in cities like Amarillo, Corpus Christi, and Lubbock—each designed specifically to address the unique needs of teenagers.
Parents often turn to these options when teen substance use or risky behavior disrupts daily life or wellness at home. Research shows that timely, professional intervention significantly boosts the chances of teen recovery and reduces long-term challenges tied to substance use and emotional struggles[6]. While Cenikor’s Houston and Austin locations focus specifically on substance use recovery and general wellness services, other Texas and New Mexico locations emphasize therapies tailored for young people, such as family-based counseling, skills groups, and wellness-focused support.
Frequently Asked Questions
This Frequently Asked Questions section is designed to address the top concerns that parents and caregivers encounter around teen wellness and substance use. Below you’ll find expert-backed answers that clarify the difference between ordinary adolescent behavior and warning signs, guidance on home support strategies, and information on navigating treatment, insurance, and recovery.
How can I tell if my teen’s behavior is typical adolescent rebellion or a sign of substance use?
Distinguishing between typical teen rebellion and behaviors signaling substance use can be a real challenge for families. While some moodiness or experimentation with new styles is normal during adolescence, look for persistent changes in your teen’s routines or personality—like a sudden drop in grades, shifts in friend groups, secretive actions, or significant mood swings that last more than a couple weeks. Studies reveal that ongoing irritability, social withdrawal, or unexplained physical symptoms (such as frequent headaches or bloodshot eyes) are more closely tied to teen wellness and substance use than one-off arguments or occasional rule-breaking[2], [6].
How do I choose between different treatment centers for my teen?
Choosing between treatment centers for your teen involves a careful checklist: check for accreditation, specialized adolescent programs, family involvement in care plans, and providers trained to address both substance use and overall wellness needs. Studies show that programs with evidence-based approaches and strong family participation lead to better results for challenges with teen wellness and substance use[6].
What are the warning signs that my teen needs immediate professional help?
Immediate professional help is needed if your teen shows warning signs such as threats or talk of suicide, self-harm, sudden severe withdrawal from family and friends, or reckless behavior that puts themselves or others at risk. Rapid changes like giving away possessions, expressing hopelessness, or frequent discussions of death are cause for urgent action. Studies reveal that 20% of high school students have seriously considered suicide in the past year—a statistic that highlights how pressing some warning signs are[2].
Can teens really become addicted after just a few uses?
Yes, teens really can become addicted after just a few uses—especially with substances like nicotine, alcohol, and certain drugs. Research shows that the adolescent brain is more sensitive to addictive substances because it is still developing systems for judgment, impulse control, and decision-making[6]. In fact, the CDC notes that signs of nicotine addiction can show up quickly, sometimes even before a teen uses e-cigarettes or vapes every day[9].
What happens after my teen completes treatment?
After your teen completes treatment for substance use, the real work of maintaining wellness and healthy habits truly begins. Most programs encourage continued support through follow-up appointments, group sessions, and regular check-ins with counselors, as studies show that ongoing involvement is key to long-term success for teens facing challenges with wellness and substance use[6].
How can I support my teen’s recovery at home without enabling their behavior?
Supporting your teen’s recovery at home without enabling unhealthy behaviors is all about creating structure, staying consistent, and fostering trust. A helpful tool is a support versus enablement checklist: set clear ground rules, praise progress, but avoid covering up or rescuing your teen from natural consequences of substance use. Research highlights that when families encourage positive habits—regular routines, open conversations, and substance-free social activities—teens are more likely to build resilience against relapse and strengthen overall wellness[5].
What should I do if I find drugs or alcohol in my teen’s room?
If you find drugs or alcohol in your teen’s room, the first step is to pause before reacting out of anger or fear. Secure any substances you discover, and use this moment as an entry point for an honest, calm conversation. Open with observations—mention what you found, express your care and concern for their wellness, and invite your teen to share their perspective. Research highlights that open communication and nonjudgmental listening support teens in facing challenges related to substance use, even when emotions run high[5].
Will my insurance cover teen substance use treatment, and what if it doesn’t?
Insurance coverage for teen substance use treatment can vary quite a bit depending on your plan, what type of care is needed, and which providers are in-network. Many health insurance policies offer at least partial coverage for outpatient counseling or more structured programs, but specifics—such as prior authorization requirements or care limits—may differ between companies. Studies show that gaps in insurance or strict benefit limits can make it harder for families to access quality support for issues related to teen wellness and substance use[6].
How long does teen substance use treatment typically take?
The typical length of teen substance use treatment varies widely based on the severity of substance use, coexisting wellness concerns, and the level of care needed. Outpatient programs might last several weeks to a few months with regular after-school sessions, while more structured intensive outpatient or residential programs can span from one month to several months, sometimes extending longer for sustained support. Studies reveal that longer engagement, especially when family is actively involved, leads to more lasting progress in teen wellness and substance use recovery[6].
Can my teen recover without going to residential treatment?
Yes, many teens make meaningful progress in recovery from substance use without entering residential treatment. Outpatient programs and intensive outpatient care are often effective for teens whose challenges with wellness and substance use have not put their safety or daily functioning at serious risk. Research shows that when families are actively involved, and when therapies are personalized to address both emotional well-being and substance use, teens benefit from flexible treatment options that fit their everyday lives[6].
What if my teen refuses to go to treatment?
When a teen refuses to attend treatment for substance use or wellness challenges, families can feel stuck and frustrated. First, consider why your teen might be resistant—common reasons include fear, denial, peer influence, or not fully understanding the benefits of help. A practical strategy is to keep communication open: calmly express your care, outline your concerns, and ask about their worries. Studies reveal that when parents listen without judgment and offer choices (like types of programs or scheduling), teens are more likely to participate in support for issues related to teen wellness and substance use[5].
How does Cenikor’s approach to teen treatment differ from other programs?
Cenikor’s approach to treating teens stands out for its strong focus on whole-person wellness, evidence-based methods, and family engagement. Unlike some programs that follow a one-size-fits-all model, Cenikor designs individualized plans that address each adolescent’s emotional, behavioral, and social needs related to substance use. Their locations outside Houston and Austin specialize in youth care by including family-based counseling, skills groups, and peer support, reflecting research that highlights the importance of connection and healthy environments during recovery[5]. Note that Cenikor’s Houston and Austin locations focus specifically on substance use recovery and general wellness services.
Are vaping and marijuana really as harmful as other drugs for teenagers?
Yes, vaping and marijuana can be as harmful as other drugs for teenagers because both can disrupt healthy brain development and put long-term wellness at risk. Research indicates that nicotine from e-cigarettes damages the adolescent brain—impacting attention, learning, and mood regulation, and sometimes leading to rapid addiction before regular use even starts[9]. Marijuana is not “safe” for teens either: Studies show that adolescent cannabis use can affect memory, attention, and self-control by changing critical brain pathways, with these effects sometimes lasting into adulthood[6].
What role should I play as a parent during my teen’s treatment?
Parents play a crucial, active role during their teen’s treatment process. Studies reveal that when families participate in sessions, reinforce wellness practices at home, and maintain steady communication with providers, outcomes for addressing teen wellness and substance use are stronger and more sustainable[6]. This approach is ideal for those who want to model resilience, provide encouragement, and help their teen apply new strategies in everyday life.
Conclusion
The journey to support teen wellness and prevent substance use truly begins with staying informed and staying connected. Throughout this guide, we’ve seen that early detection, open family conversations, and evidence-backed strategies significantly improve outcomes for teens facing these challenges. Studies reveal that about 7.2% of teens currently use illicit substances, while 40% report persistent sadness or hopelessness—making it clear how intertwined these issues remain for families today[1], [2].
When families focus on strong support systems and proactive routines, the risk for both substance use and declining wellness drops. This approach is ideal for those seeking to empower their teens to navigate peer pressure and stress with resilience and healthy habits. As research continues to grow, so do the tools and community resources available to parents, professionals, and youth who need support. With greater awareness and action, we can help more teens avoid long-term struggles and foster thriving, balanced lives.
References
- 2023 National Survey on Drug Use and Health: Key Substance Use and Wellness Indicators. https://www.samhsa.gov/data/sites/default/files/reports/rpt39443/2023NSDUH-Detailed-Tables.pdf
- CDC Data and Statistics on Children’s Wellness. https://www.cdc.gov/children-wellness/data-research/index.html
- WHO/Europe Health Behaviour in School-aged Children (HBSC) Study 2024: Adolescent Substance Use Trends. https://www.who.int/europe/news/item/25-04-2024-alcohol–e-cigarettes–cannabis–concerning-trends-in-adolescent-substance-use–shows-new-who-europe-report
- Adolescent Substance Abuse and Psychiatric Comorbidities (Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, 2006). https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17107227/
- Familial, Social, and Individual Factors Contributing to Risk for Adolescent Substance Abuse (NIH/PMC, 2013). https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4008086/
- The Influence of Substance Use on Adolescent Brain Development (NIH/PMC, 2010). https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2827693/
- NIAAA Underage Drinking in the United States: Prevalence and Consequences. https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/alcohols-effects-health/alcohol-topics/alcohol-facts-and-statistics/underage-drinking-united-states-ages-12-20
- NIDA 2024 Monitoring the Future Survey: Adolescent Drug Use Trends. https://nida.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/2024/12/reported-use-of-most-drugs-among-adolescents-remained-low-in-2024
- CDC Health Effects of Vaping: Nicotine’s Impact on Adolescent Brain Development. https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/e-cigarettes/health-effects.html
- CDC Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and Health Outcomes. https://www.cdc.gov/aces/about/index.html
Written by Cenikor’s Clinical & Compliance Team