What is substance use?
Substance use is when people use illicit drugs, alcohol, tobacco, or inhalants – to experiment, have fun, fit in socially, or cope with tough feelings like stress, sadness, or anxiety. Substance use includes anything from drinking at a party, using weed, taking counterfeit prescription pills, or using other drugs.
Substance use can seem harmless at first but can lead to problems that affect your health, relationships, and ability to handle daily life, especially if the use or misuse becomes a habit. Some substances can affect your brain, making it harder to focus, make decisions, or even feel happy without them.
Why do teens and young adults use substances?
There are many reasons teens or young adults say they choose to use substances:
• To experiment
• To have fun
• To fit in socially
• To cope with feelings like stress, sadness, anger, or anxiety
Experimentation is when someone tries a substance just to see what it’s like, maybe because they’re curious or want to fit in with friends. It’s usually occasional and doesn’t necessarily mean they will keep using it. A lot of people experiment with substances at some point, especially when they’re younger, but that doesn’t always lead to long-term use or problems.
You deserve to know how drugs, alcohol, and nicotine impact your mental and physical health
Risks and long-term effects of substance use
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Impaired decision-making
Worsening of existing mental health conditions
Increased risk of accidents and sexual violence
Poor academic performance
Interference with daily responsibilities
Memory impairment
Conflict with friends, family, coworkers,
Overdose and poisoning
Increased risk of STDs and unintended pregnancy
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Dependency (addiction) and development of a substance use disorder
Strain on relationships
Financial struggles
Chronic health issues
Change in brain functioning (e.g., memory, planning, mood regulation)
Increased risk of mental health disorders
Organ damage (e.g., liver, heart, lungs)
Learn about individual substances
Learn more about substance use disorders
The difference between overdose and poisoning
Other things to know about substance use
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