Teenage substance abuse and its effects on mental health

Teenage substance use is a mental health condition in which teenagers use drugs or alcohol in unhealthy ways. This can include addiction, and using substances in ways that interfere with normal life. Substance abuse and mental health are correlated. Mental health problems can sometimes lead to alcohol or drug use, as some people with mental health problems may misuse these substances as a form of coping mechanism. For example, when a person is depressed, it can be tempting to relieve depressive symptoms by turning to drugs and/or alcohol. An estimated one-third of people with clinical depression engage in substance abuse as a form of coping mechanism to relieve feelings of hopelessness, low self-image, and despair. Similarly, a teenager consuming substances is likely to develop mental health problems arising from various consequences of said consumption. This is the vicious cycle of teenage substance abuse and mental health problems associated with it.

Various factors that lead to teens developing substance abuse problems are-

1. Peer pressure

In a time where substance use or consumption of alcohol, and drugs is considered "cool and trendy", peer pressure is an important factor that pushes teens into substance addiction. While being a non-smoker and non-drinker creates a feeling of being left out from a group of friends who smoke or drink regularly, it may further lead to loneliness and social anxiety.

2. Parental control

Insufficient parental supervision and monitoring, lack of communication and interaction between parents and kids, poorly defined and poorly communicated rules and expectations against substance use, inconsistent and excessively severe discipline, family conflict, favorable parental attitudes toward adolescent alcohol and drug use, and parental alcoholism or drug use are important determinants of teenage drug abuse.

3. Mental health problems

Mental health problems such as depression and anxiety frequently are linked to substance abuse among adolescents. Teenagers suffering from depression, loneliness, and anxiety indulge in substance abuse as a way of relieving the pain or even as a way of feeling emotionally even, cheer them.

Consequences of substance abuse on mental health

Mental health problems such as depression, developmental lags, apathy, withdrawal, and other psychosocial dysfunctions are frequently linked to substance abuse among adolescents.

1. Higher risk

Substance-abusing youth are at higher risk than nonusers for mental health problems, including depression, conduct problems, personality disorders, suicidal thoughts, attempted suicide, and suicide. For example Marijuana use, which is prevalent among youth, has been shown to interfere with short-term memory, learning, and psychomotor skills.

2. Addiction

Frequent or regular use of substances leads to addiction. It creates an emotional and psychological dependency on substances for mental stability.

3. Emotional instability

Substance abuse can adversely affect the behavior of a teen. They may become emotionally unstable, which leads to unregulated behavior, loss of control over emotions, and deeply feeling emotions, which deteriorates mental health.

4. Academic losses

Declining grades, lack of attendance, or dropping out of school are problems associated with substance abuse. A low level of commitment to education and failure can cause psychological trauma.

5. Social problems

It can lead to a plethora of social problems, such as initiating uncomfortable conversations, lack of inhibitions, being stigmatized by their peers, disengaging from social functions, increased willingness to fight or argue, etc.

In conclusion, Substance Abuse is a complex issue affecting both the mental and physical health of adolescents. Various factors such as peer pressure, poor mental health, etc. lead to developing substance abuse issues. Not only are there physical struggles but many overlooked mental consequences may also arise. These consequences can range from emotional instability to academic failure, social problems, and long-term mental health problems as mentioned above. The relationship between substance abuse and mental health is a vicious cycle, where one leads to the other. While addressing substance abuse with teenagers a comprehensive approach is required, including supportive environments, early interventions, and effective coping mechanisms. By breaking this cycle, we can lead teenagers to healthier, more fulfilling lives.