Adolescence is a time of exploration, self-discovery and navigation through various challenges. For some, this period can be a time when past trauma has reared its head and started screaming. Whether from the past, present or stored in the body, can significantly impact an individual’s mental and emotional well-being. Unfortunately, a coping mechanism that some adolescents turn to, is substance use.

Trauma experienced during childhood will disrupt normal development and contribute to a range of psychological issues. Some of these may be post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety and low self-esteem.

Adolescents may struggle to cope with the intense emotions and distress associated with the feelings given to them by trauma. Motivated to seek relief, unhealthy behaviors and risky behaviors are often their solution and substance use being the most prevalent. 

Traumatic events at a young age is real:

• Per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 1 in 7 children have experienced child abuse or neglect in the past year.
• Per the National Institute of Health, (NIH), 26% of children will witness or experience a traumatic event before the age of 4 years old. https://tinyurl.com/25epee23
• Per the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), 66% of American children experience at least one traumatic event by age 16.  https://tinyurl.com/4ve6m8zy
• Per the National Center for Victims of Crime, (NCVC) within the US, 1 in 5 girls under the age of 18 experience sexual abuse and 1 in 20 boys. https://tinyurl.com/5dpudsvy

Adolescents can experience trauma in various forms. These experiences can have profound and long-lasting effects on their mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Trauma is not limited to singular events but can also stem from ongoing or repeated stressors. 

Common examples of trauma that adolescents may encounter are:

• Physical abuse
• Sexual abuse
• Emotional abuse
• Neglect
• Witnessing domestic violence
• Community violence
• Traumatic loss
• Birth trauma

The link between trauma and adolescent substance use:

Drugs and alcohol may offer temporary relief from the overwhelming feelings of sadness, fear, insecurities or anger. Although substances can provide a sense of euphoria or numbness that temporarily alleviates emotional pain, this relief is always fleeting. Regular use can quickly spiral into a cycle of dependence and addiction.

Adolescents may already lack the necessary coping skills to navigate their emotions. Substance use will only make it more difficult; ultimately exacerbating the problem.

Feelings an adolescent may be trying to avoid by numbing with substances include:

• Pain: Emotional pain from past experiences such as abuse, neglect or loss.
• Fear: Fear of further harm, fear of abandonment or fear of facing difficult emotions head-on.
• Sadness: Sadness and depression as adolescents struggle to come to terms with their experiences and the impact on their lives.
• Anxiety: Consistent anxiety and hyper-vigilance leaves an adolescent consistently on edge and overwhelmed.
• Anger: Anger is a natural by-product of trauma, yet hurtful to themselves and others.
• Loneliness: Isolation, alienation and lack of trusting others is so debilitating for an adolescent.
• Shame and Guilt: Shame and guilt associated with the trauma results in blaming themselves for the event(s).

Not only does substance use exacerbate mental health issues associated with trauma, but it will impede academic performance, disrupt family relationships, and increase the risk of engaging in risky behaviors such as unprotected sex, criminal activity or other unsafe behaviors. Moreover, substance use during adolescence alters brain development. This greatly increases the potential for long-term cognitive deficits and addiction issues in adulthood.

When adolescents use substances, whether it’s alcohol, marijuana, prescription drugs or illicit drugs, they expose themselves to a range of potential consequences that will negatively impact various aspects of their lives.

Some consequences of substance use are:

• Physical Health Effects: Impaired cognitive function, coordination, and judgment, increasing the risk of accidents, injuries, and even overdose. Long-term substance abuse can lead to chronic health conditions such as liver disease, cardiovascular problems, respiratory issues and permanent neurological damage.
• Mental Health Impacts: Depression, anxiety, psychosis, mood swings, irritability, paranoia and impaired judgments. These impacts are active even though the individual is not under an influence at the time.
• Academic Performance: Difficulty concentrating, retaining information and completing assignments can result in disciplinary issues at school and may limit future opportunities for success.
• Social and Interpersonal Problems: Strain to relationships with family members, friends and peers pushing away the support he or she needs.
• Legal Consequences: Underage drinking, possession and driving under the influence can result in fines, legal fees, community service, probation and even incarceration.
• Risk of Addiction: Perhaps one of the most serious consequences of adolescent substance use is the increased risk of developing addiction. Adolescents are particularly vulnerable to the addictive properties of drugs and alcohol due to the ongoing development of the brain’s reward system.
• Brain Development: Disruption of neurotransmitter systems, impaired brain structure, impaired impact on learning and altered emotional regulation are proven side-effects of using substances at an early age. 

Addressing adolescent substance use in the context of trauma requires a multifaceted approach that prioritizes both mental health and substance abuse treatment. Early intervention is crucial to prevent the escalation and mitigate long-term consequences.

For guidance and options for your struggling loved one, contact a therapeutic educational consultant for a complimentary discovery call here. 

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Photo credit, Anthony Tran