Teen Use
The earlier an individual starts smoking, drinking or using other drugs, the greater the likelihood of developing addiction.
Use of addictive substances-tobacco/nicotine, alcohol and other drugs-during adolescence interferes with brain development, reduces academic performance and increases the risk of:
- Accidents
- Addiction
- Homicides
- Serious health conditions
- Suicides
Addiction
Teens and young adults are more inclined than adults to take risks, including smoking, drinking or using other drugs. Use of any addictive substance while the brain is still developing increases the chances of future use of that and other addictive substances.
Statistics
- Nine out of ten people who abuse or are addicted to nicotine, alcohol, or other drugs began using these substances before they were 18.
- People who began using addictive substances before age 15 are nearly 7 times likelier to develop a substance problem than those who delay first use until age 21 or older.
- Every year that substance use is delayed during the period of adolescent brain development, the risk of addiction and substance abuse decreases.
Sources
Crisis Text Line
Text ’Reach’ to 741-741 for a free, confidential service brought to you by Naperville’s Collaborative Youth Team where teens can talk to crisis counselors. For more information on Crisis Text Line, check out their website.