Alcohol and Drugs Abuse in Children-Causes,Warning Signs,Various drugs

4th Pediatric Infectious Diseases Conference

ISSN 0973 - 0958

SUBSTANCE ABUSE - ALCOHOL & DRUGS

Teen Care Problems in Children

Depression in Adolescents

Puberty in Girls

Substance abuse: Alcohol and Drugs

Puberty in Boys

Suicide in Adolescents

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SUBSTANCE ABUSE - ALCOHOL & DRUGS

Dr. Ira Shah
M.D, DCH(Gold Medalist), FCPS, DNB

Teenagers are always trying new things. They may be involved with alcohol and drugs for many reasons-

Curiosity
Peer pressure
To feel grown up
For its 'kick' (because it may feel good)

Some adolescents may experiment and stop, or use occasionally while some may become dependent on them trying out more dangerous drugs, thus causing harm to themselves and even may be others. However, it is very difficult to predict which adolescent will stop and who will develop serious problems. Drug abuse may lead to serious drug use later in life, accidents and even suicide. Unfortunately, teenagers have a tendency to feel invincible and think that they shall never have a problem that others face with substance abuse.

>Teenagers at risk of serious substance abuse are

Those with an inferiority complex
Those who come from broken homes
Those with family history of alcohol or drug abuse
Those who are depressed

The various drugs abused are

Marijuana, cocaine, LSD, PCP, opium, heroin and other drugs like Ecstasy.
Over the counter medications like hypnotics, barbiturates and amphetamines.
Inhalants like glue, aerosols and solvents.

Warning signs of substance abuse

Personality changes - sudden mood changes, depression, general lack of interest, irresponsible behavior.
Breaking family rules
Falling grades. Absence from school.
Fatigue
Red and grazed eyes
Chronic cough
Disciplinary problems.

Parents may be able to recognize the warning signs. It would be useful to consult a doctor to rule out a medical problem followed by evaluation by a child psychiatrist. Treatment may be on out patient department basis whereas some may even require hospitalization. The teen may undergo various therapies like detoxification, abstinence, individual and family therapy, group therapy and even use of medications to control dependency.

Last created on 23-02-2001
Last updated on 25-04-2007

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