Illnesses & Conditions
Information on diseases and health concerns, including symptoms, treatment options, and prevention.

Substance abuse: Dealing with teen substance use

Introduction

Use of alcohol, cigarettes, inhalants, and other drugs among adolescents is a major concern for parents. Preteens and teens are starting to use harmful and illegal substances at younger ages. Teen drinking, smoking, and drug use can affect general health, physical growth, emotional development, and school performance. You can recognize and respond to substance use by:

• Knowing the signs of substance use.
• Discussing substance use with your teen.
• Getting appropriate treatment if your teen has an abuse problem.

 What is teen substance use?
 Why is it important to recognize and deal with teen substance use?
 How to recognize and deal with teen substance abuse
 Where to go from here

More information about alcohol and drug use problems can be found in the following topics:

• Alcohol Abuse and Dependence
• Alcohol and Drug Problems
• Teen Alcohol and Drug Abuse

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