Drug addiction among teenagers is one of the tough problems that may occur inside the school. Either high school students or college students are very likely to engage in this kind of problem. According to different studies, teen drug abuse can have long-term cognitive and behavioural effects since teenage brain is still developing, this is also the reason why they can’t stop using prohibited drugs on their own. Frequent use of drugs changes the brain. Some studies show that through brain imaging of a person who has drug addiction display some changes in the areas of brain.

            Parents and teachers must not overlook the signs, believing that it could be effects of puberty. The signs of drug abuse are as follows:

• Change in peer group
• Carelessness with grooming
• Decline in academic performance
• Missing classes or skipping school
• Loss of interest in favourite activities
• Trouble in school or with the law
• Changes in eating or sleeping habits
• Deteriorating relationships with family members and friends

                        And here are some facts about drug use that parents and teachers must know in     order to help the students who became delinquent or drug dependent: (Addiction     Center, addictioncenter.com)

1. There are many stage of drug abuse, ultimately leading to difficulty in managing one’s life as a result of using drugs.
2. Individuals who begin using drugs as juveniles are at greater risk of becoming addicted compared to those who begin as adult due to the immaturity of the teenage brain, particularly of the brain that control impulses.
3. Substance abuse is caused by a number of individual, family, genetic, and social factors rather than by any one cause.
4. Substance-abuse treatment usually treated based on the stage of the addiction, ranging from management of risk factors and education to intensive residential treatment followed by long-term outpatient care and support.

                        In helping teens, asking for help from professionals is the first thing that parents    may consider. They can bring their child to a doctor who can screen for signs of drug       use and other related health conditions. It is very important that parents monitor their    children to prevent them to be delinquent. Proper guidance, love and time will protect these             teenagers from drug abuse.

By: JENNIFER T. GEMZON BONIFACIO CAMACHO NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL