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1. Drugs: A drug is any chemical that, when ingested, modifies the physiology of an organism, including its psychology, if relevant.

2. Adolescence: is a phase of physical and psychological transition that typically takes place between the ages of puberty and adulthood. In this time period of a person's life, there is a high chance of exposure to some sort of drug.

3. Alcohol: known as the "Gateway Drug" first thing most drug users try in their lives. Most easily accessible.

4. Marijuana: Is another drug used by teenagers. Compared to older age groups, younger people report higher rates of alcohol and marijuana misuse or dependence disorders.

5. Peer Influence: Adolescents are greatly influenced by their peers, both when it comes to starting and maintaining drug use, as well as when experimenting with different kinds of drugs.

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Drug use is a growing trend that is becoming more common in adolescents. As a teen seeks independence from adults, taking risks may be normal and functionally appropriate during this time. Ken Winters, the author of Adolescent Brain Development and Drugs states, “Adolescence is a developmental period associated with the highest risk for developing a substance use disorder. Young people report higher rates of alcohol and marijuana abuse or dependence disorders compared to older age groups” (Winters). A basic understanding of brain development can explain these trends: Located in the far back of the brain, the limbic region develops quickly in adolescents and is responsible for processing emotions and memories. Towards the front of the brain, the prefrontal cortex, also known as "the CEO of the brain" due to its function in logical reasoning and impulse control, develops much later in adulthood. Essentially, as psychologist David Walsh writes, "it is as if a teenager's brain has a fully functional car accelerator but the brakes have not been installed yet" (Walsh 72). It is important to note that, however, developing a drug habit can be triggered by different factors, such as environmental factors, genes, and comorbidity. Preventing these addictions from developing is key, because one cannot become addicted to a substance they have never tried. Furthermore, it is pivotal to reinforce "more refined decision-making skills to assist their “brake systems” to take control in the face of emotional and arousing situations, and when peers are exerting a strong influence" (Winters). Another important risk factor to take into account is peer pressure. Adolescents are far more likely to engage in drug experimentation if their peers are experimenting as well. Choosing the proper peers in adolescence may not only minimize the risks of substance abuse but also positively reinforce healthy habits. Overall, adolescence is an age of high emotions, impulses, and experimentation, and understanding the repercussions of addiction and substance abuse is essential towards prevention and overall awareness.

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1. What are the most common drugs that teenagers are using?

2. Why are drugs so common in teenagers?

3. How can you get help?

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Source 1: “Most Reported Substance Use among Adolescents Held Steady in 2022.” National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 15 Dec. 2022, nida.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/2022/12/most-reported-substance-use-among-adolescents-held-steady-in-2022.

Source 2: Staff, Newport Academy. “Why Do Teenagers Do Drugs? 10 Reasons Your Child Might Be Using Substances.” Newport Academy, 26 Oct. 2023, www.newportacademy.com/resources/substance-abuse/reasons-teens-use-drugs/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=NA_leads_performancemax&utm_term=&kpid=go_cmp-17884784088_adg-_ad-__dev-c_ext-_prd-&gclid=CjwKCAiA9dGqBhAqEiwAmRpTC1Q7WoLqYPkay4AzSw9mg_0YP6ebzdRldfT9abUF_GHj2LkLhajvIhoCfx0QAvD_BwE.

Source 3: Melinda Smith, M.A. “Overcoming Drug Addiction.” HelpGuide.Org, 12 Oct. 2023, www.helpguide.org/articles/addictions/overcoming-drug-addiction.htm.

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Talk to Someone You Trust:

Reach out to a friend, family member, or teacher you feel comfortable talking to. Share your feelings and concerns about substance use in your life.

1. Seek Professional Help:

Contact a counselor, therapist, or school counselor who specializes in substance abuse. They can provide guidance, support, and resources to help you.

2. Build a Support System:

Surround yourself with people who care about your well-being. Share your goals and concerns with friends and family, and let them be part of your journey towards recovery. Having a strong support system can aid in overcoming substance abuse.

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1. Peer Pressure:

Desire to fit in and be accepted by peers may lead teens to experiment with drugs to align with social norms.

2. Curiosity:

Teenagers may be curious to explore altered states of consciousness and the effects of drugs.

3. Escape from Stress or Problems:

Using drugs might be an attempt to cope with stress, anxiety, or personal issues as a way to escape from reality.

4. Media Influence:

Media portrayal of drug use, especially in movies or music, can glamorize substance use and influence teens.

5. Accessibility:

Easy access to drugs, either within the community or at home, can increase the likelihood of drug use.

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Commonly smoked or consumed, it can impair memory, concentration, and coordination. Long-term use may affect mental health.

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Widely accessible, excessive use can lead to impaired judgment, health issues, and addiction.

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Prescription Medications (Opioids, ADHD medications):

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Prescription Medications (Opioids, ADHD medications):

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Abuse of prescription drugs can lead to addiction, overdose, and serious health complications.

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Highly addictive; smoking and vaping can lead to respiratory issues and other health problems.

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According to a recent report, 37% of college students habitually abuse alcohol or use illegal drugs.

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The rate of college students using drugs must slow down before the rate of overdose increases.

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Over the course of this research project, I have learned a lot of interesting concepts, ranging from neuroscience to adolescent psychology. What surprised me most during my research was how the development of different brain regions vary during adolescence, especially the complexities of the limbic region and prefrontal cortex. Some challenges included understanding the scientific terminology of the source and synthesizing it into understandable language. What I really found rewarding about the research was how I learned about all the new synthetic drugs that kill people. It is amazing to think about all the deranged drugs out there and how there are individuals willing to put them in there system. What I want to learn about in my future research is the possible ways to correct brain damage caused by drugs. Also I want to explore at the idea of funding for recovery systems for students looking to get clean.