Adolescents may abuse drugs for a variety of reasons. These often include peer group pressure, parental drug and alcohol use, depression or just a desire for a new experience. No adolescent should use alcohol or illegal drugs. However, there are certain individuals who are at increased risk. These individuals should be cautious even as adults.
Some people can drink for quite a while before running into problems.
Others have problems after that first drink. If close family members have had problems with drugs or alcohol, you are at increased risk. If you are depressed or already have trouble with mood swings, you are more likely to become addicted, and may have more trouble getting off drugs. There is evidence that drug use may cause an individual with a biological tendency toward bipolar disorder to develop the illness earlier in life. Talk to a trusted adult and get help early.