Even with all the latest regulations regarding advertising alcohol to young people, there remains a serious addiction issue in the U.S. This is also due to the boom in cannabis acceptance across the U.S. Unfortunately, addiction is even more biologically dangerous for young people, as it can affect the still-developing brain.
Better Understanding Addiction
Millions of people struggle with addiction every year in the U.S. These statistics are even greater due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), “The drug overdose and addiction crisis collided with the COVID-19 pandemic, with the potential to worsen the negative impacts of each for individuals. People who use drugs are more vulnerable to acquiring the virus that can cause COVID-19 and more likely to have worse health outcomes.” The COVID-19 pandemic has also had serious negative effects on young people.
Understanding Addiction and Young People
Addiction remains a serious issue affecting young people in the U.S. and around the world. This is especially true due to the increase in opioid use among young people, which remains part of the opioid epidemic.
Young people are also most vulnerable to addiction because they are at a very impressionable age. This means they are impressionable to advertising, peer pressure, and what they see older family and close family friends engaging in.
It is also important to remember that addiction is a disease. It is an illness that most professionals agree is genetic. This means that many young people are predisposed to addiction. This genetic predisposition and still-developing brain makes alcohol and substance use significantly more dangerous for young people.
Under 30: Understanding Addiction and the Still-Developing Brain
The reality is that the adolescent brain is still developing. According to NIDA, “Adolescence is a time of important developmental and social growth. There are many interrelated factors that influence changes in a young person’s brain structure and function and can have a long-term impact on their body, mind, and mental health.”
The still-developing brain is also primarily still developing the parts of the brain that are responsible for healthy decision-making. This creates a vicious cycle of the adolescent brain being more susceptible to trying alcohol and substances and more likely to continue the risky behaviors of continuing to use them.
Because of these dangers, it is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of addiction in young people. The following are just a few of those signs and symptoms:
- Isolating from family and close friends
- Drastic changes in friend-groups
- Losing interest in activities once enjoyed
- Smelling like alcohol and/or cannabis
- Having red and teary eyes
- Struggling with cognitive abilities like short and long-term memory
- Having trouble at school
- Engaging in risky behaviors
- Exhibiting excessive mood swings
- Appearing overly anxious and/or depressed
- Committing self-harm and/or having suicidal ideations
As one can see, these are highly dangerous symptoms of adolescent and young person addiction. This is why if any, many, or all of these symptoms are present, it is highly recommended that professional help be seen as soon as possible. Doing so could mean the difference between short-term side effects and long-term consequences.
The Still-Developing Brain: The Importance of Treatment ASAP
Many people minimize alcohol and substance use among young people as just innocent fun. This is simply not the case. Yes, many people will be able to engage in drinking and substance use without being addicted. However, many others will go down the dangerous path of addiction.
The good news is there are many effective treatment means, methods, and modalities for recovery. This includes modalities like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), nature-immersion therapy, art therapy, yoga, and meditation.
Effective Treatment Options for Recovering Young
The key to effective treatment for young people is to ensure that recovery is both individualized and comprehensive. It is important to remember that just as no two people have the same addiction struggles, no two people should have the same recovery plan.
It is also important to focus on long-term recovery to avoid a potential relapse. Relapses are more common than many people think. This can be especially true with young people who tend to be around risky alcohol and substance use more than other populations.
All Can Recover at Lantana Recovery
Here at Lantana Recovery, we know that everyone can be successful in sobriety as long as they remain willing and active in their treatment. This includes young people who struggle with addiction.
It is important to remember that recovery is all about the journey, rather than the destination, and for young people, that journey can be exciting and filled with opportunity. The key is to “give up the fight” and take the next right step. That step can start right here at Lantana Recovery.
Substance misuse and addiction can be particularly dangerous for those under thirty because their brain may still be developing. The good news is there are many options for getting sober while younger. Also, getting sober younger has never been more popular as many celebrities and influencers are choosing sobriety over substances. If you feel like you or a younger loved one are struggling with issues of addiction, mental illness, or both, we can help get you on the right road to recovery, right away. You don’t have to go through this process alone. For more information about getting sober young, please reach out to Lantana Recovery today at (866) 997-2870.
