Most Common Reasons for Adolescent Drug Rehab

At some point in your life, you have probably received some kind of drug education. Whether it was through special preventative programs in elementary school or more aggressive and open health classes in high school, you probably learned a lot about the dangers of drug use. In spite of these efforts at educating children and teenagers, an estimated one million per year still choose to get involved with addictive substances. Continue reading for more information on the most common reasons that teens visit places like the PBI Adolescent Drug Rehab.

Drug Use

Drug use is broad in its description. One of the most commonly used drugs is marijuana. As teens age, the likelihood of them using this substance increases. One study found that 1.3% of 12- and 13-year olds, 6.7% of 14- and 15-year olds, and 15.1% of 16- and 17-year olds smoke marijuana. Other studies report that by eighth grade, 20% of kids have used marijuana. Other commonly used drugs include prescribed medications, like pain killers and anti-anxiety medications. Inhalants like glue and aerosol are also commonly used substances. Illegal drugs teenagers commonly use include stimulants like cocaine and speed, LSD, heroin, and ecstasy, among others.

Alcohol Use

Alcohol is the most commonly used substance amongst teenagers. By eighth grade, 52% of adolescents have tried alcohol, which is more than double the amount of those who smoked marijuana. It is the most dangerous as it kills 6.5 times more teens than other drugs combined. It also makes this group much more likely to try harder drugs like cocaine. About one-third of high schoolers get drunk on a monthly basis. 

Tobacco Use

Another popular substance used by teenagers is tobacco, usually in the form of cigarettes. By eighth grade, 41% of teens have smoked a cigarette, making this substance twice as popular as marijuana. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention also found that almost 700,000 teenagers are addicted to tobacco. Its addictive properties are much more than that of marijuana. If you or somebody you know has any problems with substance abuse, look into a place like the PBI Adolescent Drug Rehab for information or help.