HEALTH CONSEQUENCES FOR YOUTH

Early use of psychoactive substances increase a person’s chances of more serious substance abuse and addiction
Early use is also associated with increased vulnerability to physical and social problems related to substance abuse
Prevention programming is specifically concerned about your and geared toward them

WHY DOESN’T EVERYONE BECOME ADDICTED?

Vulnerability to addictions differs from persons to person; there is no single factor
Abuse and addiction depend on both biological and environmental factors
- Biological factors include genetics, which is estimated to account for between 40% to 60% of a person’s vulnerability to addiction
A number of other factor are involved
- Including parenting styles
- Family functioning
- Accessibility to substances
- Academic achievement
- Peer and community influence

Protective Factors

Protective factors are those characteristics that can reduce a person’s risk for substance abuse or addiction. Protective factors that may decrease the risk of drug use include:

Strong bond with a parent or caregiver
High self esteem
Parent or caregiver who talks regularly with their child about drugs
Active in faith-based organizations, school, athletic, or community activities
Spending time around positive role models
Living in a community that offers youths activities where drugs and alcohol are not tolerated
Attending a school with an effective alcohol and drug education program and a non-tolerance policy for alcohol and drugs
Belief that using drugs may be harmful or risky