Substance Use Intervention and Prevention for Youth

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Young people are facing several challenges at once. These can be things like school, work, family, and friends. These stresses could lead to youth misusing substances to cope. Young people who often misuse substances experience more physical and mental health challenges. Misusing substances can harm a youth’s overall health and can lead to long-term substance misuse. Young people struggling with substance misuse can achieve recovery. 

Here is what you need to know:

  • High-Risk Substance Use Includes:
    • Using prescription drugs without a doctor's order
    • Illegal drugs (cocaine, heroin, meth, inhalants, hallucinogens, ecstasy)
    • Injecting substances (increases risk of HIV, hepatitis & overdose)
  • Risk Factors to Watch:
    • Family history of substance misuse
    • Lack of parental awareness or supervision
    • Friends who misuse substances
    • Poor school connection or grades
    • Mental health challenges
    • History of abuse
    • Family rejection of LGBTQ+ youth

Adolescents struggling with substance use and addiction can achieve recovery. 

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