What Drugs Are Teens Using The Most?

What Drugs Are Teens Using The Most?

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What drugs are teens using most?

 

About 1.2 million people age 12 to 17 smoked cigarettes, drank alcohol or used marijuana on any given day in 2006, according to The Office of Applied Studies (OAS) in the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. In addition 49,000 adolescents used inhalants, 27,000 used hallucinogens (e.g., Ecstasy and other club drugs), 13,000 used cocaine, and 3,800 used heroin.  Many parents and teachers are concerned about teen drug use and are trying to educate parents and teens about the harm that using drugs can do to still-growing bodies. One place to start is by understanding which drugs teens use the most.

What is the drug most used by teens?
Alcohol is the drug of choice for teens. Most people have it in their house and it is easy to obtain, as it is sold in stores everywhere. Alcohol also has a long history and greater acceptance by society. Some don’t even consider it a drug.

Why are inhalants used more often by younger teens?
As with other household goods, inhalants can be purchased without age restriction and are found in many homes. Most adults have no idea of the kind of products that can be used as an inhalant, so it may be easier for teens to hide their use.

Is chewing tobacco really a drug?
Chewing tobacco contains nicotine and other substances found in cigarettes, which can cause the user to feel light headed. They have been linked to cancers in the mouth and throat.

Has LSD use declined?
LSD used has declined over the years in teens. Although some still use it, it may be harder to get due to a lack of demand.

Whoa man, what’s with all the circles?
The circles are an easy way to show each group’s use of the drugs over a given period of time. Maybe you fall within one of these groups and are confused. Seek help!

Are cigarettes a drug?
The cigarette is not the drug, but it is a carrier for a very addictive drug, nicotine. Nicotine affects your brain and mood. Cigarettes are highly addictive and cause numerous cancers and illnesses.

What drugs do younger teens seem to use most?
Easily obtainable ones are the drugs younger teens seem to favor. Substances like alcohol, cough medicines and prescription drug medications, that can be found in most households, are the ones used most by younger teens.

What are the least used drugs for teens?
Heroin seems to be the drug that is least abused by teenagers. The drug’s popularity has been declining.

How do teens get alcohol?
If it is not found in their homes, they can usually find it at a friend’s house or they can get an adult to buy it for them. They can also buy a fake id that may allow them to purchase alcohol themselves.