Co-occurring Disorders in Adolescents

Co-occurring mental health and substance abuse disorders are quite prevalent in today’s society. Treatment and prevention of co-occurring disorders are both critical topics. However, professionals across the board cannot seem to agree on what is the best way to approach these topics. Perhaps the most ‘at-risk’ demographic for substance use are adolescents, ages 12 – 17. (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration [SAMHSA], 2011) Thankfully, more and more research has been conducted in the areas of adolescents and co-occurring disorders over the past few decades. However, since treating and preventing co-occurring disorders in adolescents is so monumental for their proper development and for their future as adults, the research must continue.
A report released in May of 2011 stated that age of first use could be as early as seven of age or younger. (SAMHSA) However, statistically the age of first use is normally ages 13 and 14. (SAMHSA, 2011) Early substance abuse often includes such substances as tobacco, alcohol, inhalants, marijuana, and prescription drugs such as sleeping pills and anti-anxiety medicines. (SAMHSA, 2013) If drug abuse persists into later adolescence, abusers typically become more heavily involved with marijuana and then advance to other drugs, while continuing their abuse of tobacco and alcohol. (SAMHSA, 2013) Studies have also shown that abuse of drugs in late childhood and early adolescence is associated with greater drug involvement. (SAMHSA, 2013) However, some research has shown that a number of adolescents may not progress to abusing other drugs. (SAMHSA, 2013)

National research shows that the early initiation of substance use has been associated with alterations in brain functioning, ...

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