Drug and alcohol abuse is a long-term, debilitating mental illness known as addiction. For teenagers, experimenting with substances may seem fun or rebellious, but without proper education regarding such substances, there can be severe consequences. Many teenagers don’t realize they are at risk for addiction based on trauma, mental illness, or family history.

Risks and Consequences

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), teen substance use can:

• — Impact brain development and growth
• — Lead to risky behaviors like unprotected sex or driving under the influence
• — Risk future physical and mental health issues such as high blood pressure, heart disease, liver disease, sleep disorders, depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders

The notion that “marijuana isn’t addictive” is a common misconception. Chronic use of marijuana, especially when introduced in younger years, can lead to addiction and other risks. Our professional care is instrumental in navigating marijuana addiction and recovery.