I want to fit in and belong. They face peer pressure to use drugs or alcohol. Be there for them. I could use a drink. Grown-ups and teens need healthy, constructive ways to use their energy, deal with stress and relax.
Young people wonder what drugs do.
Learn their names and effects. Talk about them with your kids or they will learn from hearsay or from users and pushers. Unfortunately, many signs of substance abuse mirror those of adolescence, such as withdrawing, being secretive and uncooperative. A teen wants privacy. But if she suddenly installs a lock on her door, something more may be going on.