Meridian Health

As the parent of a teenager, you probably put drugs and alcohol at the top of your list of safety concerns. You can’t keep tabs on your teen at all times — so how can you stop him or her from engaging in risky behavior?

“The reasons individual teens begin using drugs or alcohol vary,” explains John Verdon, M.D., board certified psychiatrist and specialist in adolescent addictions at Riverview Medical Center.

As a group, teens are vulnerable to substance abuse for several reasons:

• Peer pressure. Teens may drink alcohol to fit in.
• Depression and anxiety. Teens often turn to substance abuse to self-medicate psychiatric disorders.
• Stress. When stressed, teens may smoke and drink to cope.
• Body image. Girls may turn to diet pills, cigarettes, and other drugs to maintain a culturally acceptable look. And boys may turn to anabolic steroids to improve their athletic performance or their appearance.
  

Drugs and Alcohol: Girls vs. Boys

Teenage boys have slightly higher overall rates of illicit drug use, but girls are more likely to abuse prescription drugs such as pain relievers and tranquilizers.

“When it comes to drinking, the sexes are pretty closely matched,” says Dr. Verdon. “Underage boys, however, are more likely to report binge and heavy drinking than their female counterparts.”

Alcohol affects their bodies differently. Physically, girls are more vulnerable than boys to alcohol-related problems. They become intoxicated more quickly after drinking less alcohol and are more vulnerable to alcohol poisoning. They also have fewer of the enzymes that break down alcohol, so alcohol affects them longer.

Steps to Take

What can you do to help prevent teenagers’ use of alcohol and drugs? “Pay attention to stress levels; signs of depression, anxiety, and other psychosocial issues; and mental health needs,” suggests Dr. Verdon. “And offer immediate support and counseling if you see a problem.”

In addition, research shows that adolescents who know their parents strongly disapprove of drug use are less likely to use than teens who feel their parents don’t strongly disapprove. So make sure your children know where you stand.

If you suspect or know your son or daughter is using drugs or alcohol, seek immediate advice from a health or mental health professional.

About the Doctor

John J. Verdon, M.D.
Board Certified in Psychiatry
Red Bank | 732-842-9468