Substance use and addiction are worldwide issues, and the most at-risk population is teenagers who are in a crucial stage of brain development. A lot of things can influence a young person’s decision to try substances. These things can include peer pressure, trauma, and problems in the home. Listed below are some resources that can help families and teens understand what addiction is, what causes it, and how they can get help.

This video provides good information on how and why a teenager may start using substances and how it can turn into addiction. There is a message for parents on how to support their child in order to prevent them from feeling like they need substances to cope. There is also a message for teens that warns them that pursuing a “party” lifestyle will lead to an unhealthy life, and possibly death.

In this video you will learn the differences between being addicted and really liking something. It also explains some of the reasons young people may start using substances such as a need to fit in, traumatic events and mental illness. This video suggests pursuing therapy and building connection with others around you in order to stay away from substances.

How Addiction Happens. (2017, October 16). How addiction happens [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HDfSx_Q7_Yk

Oasis Mental Health Applications. (2020, March 11). Addiction: Types, causes, and solutions (for teens) [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dsTwkX1cdCY