Stress is a key factor driving some teens to drugs and alcohol, CDC study warns
Supporting and improving mental health could have a direct impact on substance use among teens in the United States, according to a recent study. Teens who were being assessed for treatment for substance use disorder were asked to identify their motivations for using drugs and alcohol. The most common reason reported was to feel mellow, calm, or relaxed. Many other top reasons were related to coping with stress, including stopping worrying or forgetting bad memories. Substance use often begins in adolescence and can have negative impacts on brain development. Mental health has become a key concern in recent years, with leaders declaring a national state of emergency in child and adolescent mental health. Another recent report showed signs of improvement in the mental health of children and adolescents, but it’s still considered a substantial public health problem, especially among teen girls. A recent analysis found that 1 in 5 adolescents have reported symptoms of anxiety or depression, and many are not receiving the treatment they need. The report also highlighted the trend of teens using substances alone, which is particularly concerning for those using prescription drugs. Education on harm reduction practices and promoting mental health among adolescents could help prevent fatal overdoses and lessen motivations for substance use.