Addictive Disorders & Addiction Therapy

ADDICTION AND YOUTH

The risk for developing an addiction is exceptionally high during the adolescent and young adult years, and worldwide families and communities are suffering because of addiction's widespread impact. An overwhelming majority of those addicted to illicit drugs like opium, heroin and cheaper synthetic substances fall between 15 and 35 years old. Studies indicate that young people are four times more likely to become addicts. As we grow up, brain determines which biochemical it needs to stay healthy. The most important of these chemicals called Neurotransmitters. They play a major role in everyday functions like eating, sleeping and overall mood. When drugs are introduced to a developing mind, the brain may mistake the substances as important neurotransmitters. The brain then programs itself to depend on these substances to perform certain functions, causing the individual to crave drugs.

Drug abuse can cause a variety of long-term problems for teens. The most severe consequence is death whether it’s by overdose, traffic accidents, crime-related activity or other causes. When left untreated, drug or alcohol addiction can cause potentially fatal health issues, including stroke, heart disease and liver failure. Teens who abuse drugs get into accidents at a high rate. They die from suicide, accidents and illness much more often than teens who avoid drugs. Adolescents who share needles and other drug paraphernalia can contract diseases, such as hepatitis and HIV. Many drugs also damage the body’s immune system, making it more difficult to recover from minor illnesses.