HomeMy WebLinkAbout2020-03-03 Written Communications - Lippitt The earlier an individual starts smoking, drinking or using other drugs,
the greater the likelihood of developing addiction:
• Use of addictive substances—tobacco/nicotine, alcohol, marijuana and other drugs--during adolescence
interferes with brain development,reduces academic performance and increases the risk of accidents,
homicides, suicides and serious health conditions, including addiction.
• Teens and young adults are more inclined than adults to take risks, including smoking, vaping, drinking
or using other drugs. Use of any addictive substance while the brain is still developing increases the
chances of future use of that and other addictive substances.
• 9 out of 10 people with addiction involving nicotine, marijuana, alcohol or other drugs began using these
substances before they were 18.
• People who began using addictive substances before age 15 are nearly 7 times likelier to become
addicted than those who delay first use until age 21 or older.
• Every year that substance use is delayed during brain development,the risk of addiction decreases.
9 OUT OF 10
PEOPLE WITH ADDICTION
STARTED USING SUBSTANCES
BEFORE THEY TURNED 18
Warning Signs of Teen Substance Use
• Alcohol, smoke or other chemical odors on your child's or their friends' breath or clothing
• Obvious intoxication, dizziness or bizarre behavior
• Changes in dress and grooming
• Changes in choice of friends
• Frequent arguments, sudden mood changes and unexplained violent actions
• Changes in eating and sleeping patterns
• Sudden weight gain or loss
• Loss of interest in usual activities or hobbies
• School problems such as declining or failing grades, poor attendance and recent discipline problems
• Trauma or frequent injuries
• Runaway and delinquent behavior
• Depressed mood or talk about depression or suicide; suicide attempts
Source:American Academy of Pediatrics. Writtenuni do s
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