Teenagers face social challenges every day and one of the most common is the temptation for teen age drug abuse. Often teenagers don't think doing drugs is wrong, and they find it acceptable without realizing the impact it can have on them. This is troubling for society and especially for families.

What are the reasons for teen age drug abuse? Sometimes it is an escape, or to relieve stress, to relax, or even just to have fun. Many teen age drug abuse starts with wanting to fit in with their peers who are abusing drugs or out of curiosity. Teens are most likely to abuse drugs at parties and when they are with friends. We also know that teen age drug abuse often leads to sex. Add to that unplanned pregnancies and/or health risks.

You teen will be exposed to drugs, as most are. Research shows that the best way to prevent drug abuse by teens is to have a solid relationship with their parents who monitor their behavior. But, there are times when the best parenting falls short and teens succumb to drug abuse.
How can you tell if your teen is involved in teen age drug abuse?

• Look your teen in the eyes - most drugs will affect how your teen looks. They may have bloodshot eyes or have a checked out look to them.
  
• Notice the friends they are around and especially if they have drug problems.
  
• Watch your teen's behavior for drastic changes - and notice if they become secretive and try to avoid you (more than usual).
  
• Physical changes: extreme weight loss, losing a lot of hair, and other signs.

Alcohol is the most abused drug in our society. But there are many different ways to abuse drugs. There are steroids, over-the-counter medications (like cough syrup or inhalants), and even prescription medications such as pain pills. Then of course there are the illegal drugs like heroin, meth, cocaine, and marijuana.

Your teen's brain is still developing. Drug abuse can bring permanent physical changes. It can affect teens in all ways including their emotional health, and their behavior. Not only can teen age drug abuse be either a mask for or contribute to depression, will alter their ability to make good decisions and eventually they will put themselves in harmful situations.

Whatever drugs your teen is abusing, it may get to a level that you need a lot more intervention than you can provide. You'll need professional assistance. There are many programs available to help with teen age drug abuse. Look into the options until you find a treatment that will break your teenager of drug abuse.