Among US students graduating from high school, 63% have been drunk, 22% smoke cigarettes daily, 21% currently smoke marijuana, and 17% have used inhalants. These levels are unacceptably high and are associated with significant health problems. Suicides, homicides, and unintentional injuries account for 80% of US adolescent deaths, and many involve alcohol and drugs. High levels of teenage drug use are associated with increased sexual activity, early marriage, and high-risk or even coercive sexual behavior. Work force entry with inadequate education, and other failures in the developmental tasks of adolescence with subsequent failure in young adult roles are also associated with substance abuse. From a behavioral epidemiological perspective, the primary focus of prevention efforts ought to be placed then in the three most widely used and misused drugs-- tobacco, alcohol, and marijuana. The question in prevention becomes not why but how.
Marijuana Facts for Teens
How Can I Tell if I Have a Problem with Drugs or Alcohol?
Drug and alcohol problems can affect every one of us regardless of age, sex, race, marital status, place of residence, income level, or lifestyle.
You may have a problem with drugs or alcohol, if:
You can't predict whether or not you will use drugs or get drunk.
You believe that in order to have fun you need to drink and/or use drugs.
You turn to alcohol and/or drugs after a confrontation or argument, or to relieve uncomfortable feelings.
You drink more or use more drugs to get the same effect that you got with smaller amounts.
You drink and/or use drugs alone.
You remember how last night began, but not how it ended, so you're worried you may have a problem.
You have trouble at work or in school because of your drinking or drug use.
You make promises to yourself or others that you'll stop getting drunk or using drugs.
You feel alone, scared, miserable, and depressed.
If you have experienced any of the above problems, take heart, help is available. More than a million Americans like you have taken charge of their lives and are living healthy and drug-free.
Updated 02/21/2001