But in the longer term it exacerbates them, and often ends in abuse or dependence.

In the short term, substance use can help alleviate unwanted mental health symptoms like hopelessness, anxiety, irritability and negative thoughts. But because adolescent brains are still developing, the results of teenage “self-medication” can be more immediately problematic. In this they are not different from adults. When teenagers are struggling with emotional problems, they often turn to alcohol or drug use to help them manage painful or difficult feelings. If a person with schizophrenia uses drugs or alcohol, they’re more likely to have psychotic episodes.Įxperts note that to encourage teens to reduce or stop substance use, it’s important give them other coping strategies to manage their problems without turning to substances.

Substance use is also a problem for teens or young adults with schizophrenia. Substance use can also make depressed teenagers more prone to impulsive suicidal behavior. Drinking is even more dangerous for kids with ADHD because they’re already impulsive. Instead of slowing them down, alcohol can make teens feel more energetic, do riskier things and get more aggressive. It can also impact their future.Īlcohol affects teenagers differently.

This can make it harder to treat their mental health. If they’re not treated, almost half of kids with mental health disorders will end up having a substance use disorder. This is especially true if they have mental health disorders. Teens also become addicted more quickly than adults. So if teens use drugs or alcohol to feel better, they’ll run into problems more quickly than adults.ĭrinking or smoking marijuana can help make hopelessness, anxiety, irritability and negative thoughts disappear quickly. While adults do this too, a teenager’s brain is still developing. When teenagers are upset or angry, they often turn to alcohol or drug use to help them manage their feelings.

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