Pandemic Drives Decline in Teen Drug Use
The percentage of teens using illicit substances dropped significantly in 2021 as the pandemic forced them into isolating from friends, classrooms and extracurricular activities.
Alcohol, marijuana and nicotine vaping – the most commonly used substances by teens – all showed significant declines from 2020. The findings were released by the University of Michigan’s Monitoring the Future study.
Richard Capriola, the author of The Addicted Child: A Parent’s Guide to Adolescent Substance Abuse noted “Whether the decline in teen drug use continues beyond the pandemic is yet to be seen.” He noted that teen drug use, especially vaping of nicotine and marijuana, had reached alarming levels just prior to the pandemic.
The Addicted Child: A Parent’s Guide to Adolescent Substance Abuse is a roadmap for parents. Capriola explained, “Knowledge is power and this book gives parents the information and resources needed to feel less paranoid and more confident if faced with a child using alcohol or drugs.”
Capriola’s book give parents critical warning signs alerting them to early alcohol and drug use. Other topics include a review of assessments needed for a diagnosis, treatment options and an explanation of how drugs work in the teen brain. The book also guides parents on how to identify and choose evidence-based treatment programs.
Capriola has over two decades of experience treating teens and adults diagnosed with mental health and substance use issues. This includes over a decade as an addictions counselor at Menninger Clinic in Houston Texas.
Since his book was released early last year Capriola has conducted over 150 interviews on adolescent substance abuse. He is available for interviews and may be reached at [email protected] or by calling 217-816-9193.
(SOURCE: Author Richard Capriola)
