Counseling – Drug Addiction in Youth
The drug addiction in youth today is a world-wide problem and more common than one can imagine. Teens are trying alcohol, marijuana, cigarettes, and heroin etc. even before they have turned 15. Just like any adult addict, the brain-working and neuron patterns of young drug addicts also show the same changes. Once the drugs and substance abuse take over their mind, their personality gradually begins to deform in a very strange way. Teens constitute an important part of our society. Imagining them to fall into the trap of substance abuse at such young age only points towards the seriousness of this issue.
Causes
The most common causes of drug addiction in youth are mainly an urge to experiment and experience something new. Then, there is peer pressure, lack of communication between parents and teens, low self-esteem, and a tendency towards seeking pleasure. Genetics and family history of substance abuse also contributed to drug addiction in teenagers. After trying the drugs once, the cycle goes on. It becomes an involuntary process and giving in to the harmful urges becomes a natural habit. The biggest reason behind the inability of our young ones to get out the drug addiction is denial and secrecy amongst both teens and their parents.
Effects
Talking about the effects of drug addiction in youth, the list goes on to a great length. A long exposure to habit-forming substance abuse gives birth to poor memory, low self-confidence, serious health troubles, and even violent behaviors. The addicted teenagers are also more prone to having accidents, mood swings, poor sleep, and developing psychological disorders like schizophrenia and bipolar syndrome. The drug abuse may happen at a crucial time of their career-making and ruin the future despite having brilliant talents. The regret, however, may not always be reversible, leading to mental breakdown and suicidal tendencies in the teenagers.
Prevention
The first and foremost step towards dealing with drug addiction in youth is recognizing the denial mode and getting it out of the way. A healthy and supportive atmosphere of trust and love is a must between the parents and their young ones. For parents, blaming themselves or their kids is of no help. Instead, opting to meet a therapist, taking their teens and visiting a self-help center along with effective medicines may really do wonders. Parents also need to be vigilant of any such friends or relatives who themselves are suffering from addiction, as they may act as triggers and damage all the efforts being made. Maintaining a distance with such persons and unhealthy surroundings is equally essential during the whole process.
Conclusion
Our young ones are the future of our society. Watching them fall into this dark pit of drug addiction is the last thing that we need. With the help of open communication, observation, and positive mindset, we as adults can prevent such cases. Nonetheless, in case of drug abuse, there should not be any need to feel ashamed and helpless. Delaying the treatment worsens the case. That is why, once the drug abuse in the youth is confirmed, it is better to take prompt steps and receive help from self-help groups and therapists.
For help:
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