Marijuana is considered a gateway drug that sometimes leads to the use of a more potent one. Alcohol and nicotine are also gateway drugs. Many adolescents start with alcohol and nicotine and eventually progress to more harmful substances.
Many people believe marijuana is a safe drug with little to no withdrawal symptoms. People who use marijuana usually have no intentions of using more intense drugs but are more likely to end up using cocaine, heroin, or painkillers. Young teens often try marijuana and drink, which increases the risk of an addiction to drugs and alcohol.
People usually drink to socialize or during special events and occasions. Adolescents are vulnerable to using drugs or drinking alcohol due to peer pressure, stress, or mental health issues. Teens often display impulsive, destructive behavior.
Drugs and alcohol have devastating effects on a teen’s development and physical, mental, and psychological health. Many people who smoke cigarettes or other forms of nicotine started using in adolescence. Quitting nicotine is very challenging and rarely done cold turkey.
An alternative to smoking cigarettes or inhaling cigarette smoke is called vaping, which is gaining popularity among teens and young adults. Vaping uses fewer chemicals, but still contains nicotine, the addictive substance found in cigarettes and other ways to use tobacco.
Young people are using e-cigarettes as well. E-cigarettes are battery-operated devices that look like a cigarette, pipe, etc. The e-cigarettes are filled with a liquid, containing nicotine that heats up and vaporizes. The person using the device inhales the vapor, and unknowingly inhales chemicals from the product as it heats up.
Marijuana, alcohol, and nicotine are all addictive substances that can lead to hard-core drug use with substances that are more potent. Learn about the harmful effects of drugs. If your teen has an addiction to drugs or alcohol, get help now.
Cypress Lake Recovery specializes in treatment for addiction with a mind, body, and spiritual approach to therapy and offers aftercare services to transition more easily into a new sober lifestyle. Cypress Lake Recovery is committed to the overall health and successful recovery of every client. Do not wait. Get help today.
Cypress Lake Recovery offers treatment for substance addiction, addictive behavior, dual diagnosis, and mental health conditions in a serene, remote, lush-green environment. The program encompasses holistic addiction therapy for the mind, body, and soul. The focus is on physical, mental, and emotional well-being by generating the balance of life-enriching treatment, wellness, and healthy sober relationships that are sustainable. Call us to get started: 866-217-2636
