Teen Drug Abuse is a Community Problem

Glass of Alcohol and child blocks

Teen drug abuse is a community problem because the illicit use of drugs or alcohol can affect the way a community functions as a whole. Not only do drugs and alcohol cause family problems, they are also the source of increased vandalism, robberies and assaults. The effect on the economy is significant as well with respect to increased absenteeism at work and at school and the added expense of incarcerating drug offenders. In addition, the effects of drug abuse impact general health too. For example, drinking alcohol, over the short-term, can cause a disruption in one’s motor and cognitive skills. Therefore, users have a tendency to have more accidents. Consumed regularly, alcohol can damage one’s heart and liver too. Such use only leads to a break in relationships and damages one’s credibility at school and work. Signs of alcohol abuse include:

Red and White Narcotic Pills

• Physical dependence, which results in withdrawal symptoms, such as physical pain, seizures, hallucinations and the shakes.
• Frequent drunken behavior.
• Tolerance – the person must drink a lot before showing signs of drunkenness.
• Continual drinking regardless of the effect on a person’s living or financial situation.
• Depression.

As you can see, drinking alone can impact a great many people, besides the drinker, emotionally and economically. Marijuana is also a cause of concern in many communities in the U.S. The illegal substance can lead to swings in mood, depressive episodes as well as hallucinations. Not only that, people who smoke the substance can suffer from high blood pressure and an increased heart rate. Because the drug impairs one’s reaction time, people on the substance are often prone to having accidents. Marijuana also leads to the use of stronger substances, such as cocaine or heroin, which are physically addictive. Smoking, too, is a concern, on the community level. Because of the dangers of second-hand smoke, stopping smoking or not beginning is not only helpful to you but also to those around you. The use of tobacco is cause for a series of health concerns, including cancer, circulatory problems, heart disease, and respiratory problems. If you are addicted to any of the aforementioned substances or similar drugs, such as prescription medications, then you need to seek help for your problem. Don’t put off getting the care you need. Drug abuse among teens is a prevailing problem. However, it is also preventable. Educate yourself as to the dangers, and if you have a problem, seek the appropriate help by obtaining assistance from a qualified medical professional or by way of a drug treatment program.

Tagged as: drug abuse among teens, effects of drug abuse, teen drug abuse