Many adolescents face a variety of life challenges that can affect their mental health. Some face bullying, peer pressure and additional stressors that can make them more susceptible to substance misuse. Additionally, the transition into middle & high school can be difficult and can make some youths more vulnerable. In this newsletter, we want to review on how substance use affects young people differently than it affects adults.
Adolescents are more likely to make risky decisions, making it even more important to understand brain development. The adolescent’s brain develops gradually with some parts maturing earlier than others. The first parts of the brain to develop are the ones that control physical activity, emotional expression and motivation. The prefrontal cortex, which is responsible for the higher functions that include impulse control, decision making, problem solving, emotional regulation and planning develops much later in life. Most experts agree that the prefrontal cortex isn’t fully developed until the age of 25. This helps explain why adolescents are more vulnerable to the temptations of substance abuse where they may see a short term benefit from getting high but not understand the long term consequences.
It is important to understand that addiction is a disease of the brain, just as diabetes is a disease of the body. It is a result of changes to the structure and chemistry of the brain that can become permanent. The nucleus accumbens is a part of our brain’s reward system that sends signals to our body when something is good or pleasurable. For example, when you have something delicious to eat, your brain sends a “feel good” signal that makes us want more. Drugs like nicotine, heroin, and amphetamines overwhelm our brain with those “feel good” signals, mediated through dopamine, and interfere with our natural healthy reward system. Over time, the brain loses its ability to feel good with natural rewards and only the substance of abuse will suffice. For some people, the natural reward system can return normal after some time but for others it can lead to addiction. While it is true that not everyone becomes addicted to alcohol & drugs, adolescents are especially susceptible because of their maturing brain and social pressures they face.
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