Adolescents and Substance use disorder

A few facts about Adolescents and Substance use disorder

Parents can be one of the most effective resources in preventing and reducing substance abuse in adolescents and young adults. Below are a few interesting facts:

• Over 11 million American adolescents and young adults ages 12 – 29 need help with substance use disorder
• 90% of the adolescents and young adults who need help are not getting it
• Parents consider drugs and alcohol as one of the most important issues facing teens, young adults, and parents
• Parents who intervene early - can help significantly reduce the likelihood that they will become addicted
• Coerced (involuntary/intervention) treatment for an adolescent with substance use disorder can be just as effective as treatment after “Hitting Bottom.”
• The adolescent brain is not fully developed until ages of 22 – 24 and can more vulnerable to the effects of Drugs and Alcohol
• Some adolescents and young adults have special vulnerability to substance use disorder – including:
  o Started using at an early age
  o Family history
  o Existing mental health problems
  o Friends that use

At Lotus we believe in Renewing and Restoring the wholeness to individuals and their families impacted by substance use and mental health disorder. You are not alone. If you or someone you love is need of help reach out….

Resource: Drug free prevention Resources