Teens don’t always understand the risks of their actions because they are still growing and learning. They may start consuming alcohol and drugs to fit in with their peers. They may even start abusing substances to get away from their emotions. Adolescent addiction can lead to criminal charges and jail time. You may want to know what leads to adolescent addiction and how it can affect your teen. Knowing how a teen can become addicted can prevent your teen from being charged with juvenile crimes. Here’s what you should know:
Environments and events can change teens
Children are like clay and they mold to their environment, so it should be reasonable to think teens aren’t much different just because they are a few years older. If your teen is around other people who are known to use or abuse substances then your teen may start using without knowing the consequences. Teens are even more susceptible to substance abuse if they have experienced traumatic events. A teen might seek out alcohol or drugs to dull the pain of physical trauma. Emotional trauma, like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or depression, can also lead a teen to use alcohol or drugs. High amounts of substance use can lead a teen to seek out more alcohol or drugs risking their chances of being caught stealing or in possession. Teens who build a dependency on alcohol or drugs may be convinced to steal from stores or family members to get their next drink or high.Addiction shouldn’t cost your teenager their future. You may need to seek legal help so that your child gets the treatment they need instead of jail time.
