Helping Addicted Adolescents

Psychologists and behavioural researchers state that our early years shape much of who we become. Yet sometimes, we wonder, are the adolescent years any less crucial?

Teenagers are coming to terms with saying goodbye to childhood and preparing for the expectations of a demanding world. Their quiet worries are often brushed aside with a “they’ll grow out of it,” but dismissals like this can leave real cries unanswered.

We can start to tackle the drivers of adolescent addiction after we understand them. We’re giving you practical steps to help an adolescent who is struggling, because every child deserves such support.

How many adolescents are caught in addiction?

It is relatively common for most late-teenagers to go through a period of experimentation with drugs and drinking. Almost all of us can relate, in some way, to those urges of rebellion against what we’re told not to do in our teenage years.

Yet, fully-fledged addiction among adolescents is becoming a bigger problem than we may first think. Data from the Office for National Statistics shows that drug use among younger people was 16.5% in 2024, higher than in previous years. Their research shows that younger people are more likely to take drugs and to potentially fall prey to addiction’s grip.

Behind every statistic is a young person trying to navigate the pressures of developing into healthy, functioning adults. Understanding the scale of addiction can help parents and carers alike to take early concerns seriously, before patterns of use are entrenched into lifelong dependence.

What is driving adolescent addiction?

Broadly speaking, adolescents are not immune to the factors that can force an adult into substance addiction. In fact, they may be even more susceptible to the pull of drug addiction, having not yet garnered a complete life experience and understanding of a drug’s true danger.

The reasons behind adolescent substance use are rarely straightforward. Researchers note that predictors of early drinking or drug use are underexplored, but it is clear that no single factor is responsible. A complex blend of factors are all shaping the choices a teenager makes, every single day.

Recurring factors of adolescent substance use

Specifically to teenagers, certain themes repeat in the research around substance use and early addiction. These factors might not be as strongly applicable to adult addiction formation, as adolescents face different kinds of life challenges, but they can include:

• Risk-taking and brain development: The teenage brain is, naturally, still going through changes and developments in areas linked to self-control and forward thinking. A teenager is more likely to seek thrills, without necessarily weighing up the consequences.
• Pressure from peers and broader influences: It is not unjust to say that teenagers today are inundated with media messaging related to alcohol or drug use, from music to films and TV portrayals.
• Parent modelling and family dynamics: Research shows that the way a parent or guardian models substance use has a direct link with teenage experimentation. A household where substance use seems “normal” can quickly become a stage for younger people to try them.
• Genetics and inherited vulnerability: Further studies suggest that between 50-60% of risk factors in alcohol use disorder (AUD) can be traced to heritable factors. Genetics alone don’t dictate destiny, but they can increase a young person’s susceptibility to addiction later in life.

How can I spot the signs of addiction in an adolescent?

Adolescence is a time of upheaval, in the best of circumstances. It can often be difficult to distinguish between “normal teenage behaviour” and the early signs of something more sinister. Teenagers often swing between open expressiveness and cold withdrawal, leaving a caring adult feeling unsure as to how they really feel.

Still, there can be universal warning signs to look out for that help you understand whether they’re struggling with addiction:

Look closely at their academic performance

School and college are central to almost all adolescent lives. They spend most of their time, most days of the week, in places of learning around teachers and carers. If you see sudden drops in grades or unexplained absences, they might be struggling with drug use. You may also want to speak with a teacher whom you know the child likes and trusts. They may have noticed changes and can give you insights you might otherwise miss.

Swift changes in family and social dynamics

Adolescence is known for periods of rebellion, but when a teenager’s relationships suddenly shift, you might start to worry. They might start becoming extremely secretive or defensive of their whereabouts and who they spend time with. They might also quickly lose interest in hobbies and interests you know they previously enjoyed. Not every change tells of an addiction, but staying attentive to their patterns can give you a better understanding of how they’re doing.

Echoes of heritability across generations

Addiction risk is influenced by both environment and genetics, with research showing that around half of the likelihood for alcohol use disorder can be inherited. At times, you may even see behaviours in your child that mirror a family member from the past, someone you know also struggled with addiction. Echoes can appear in subtle ways, so you’ll need to trust your instincts if you’re seeing troubling similarities in habits or coping strategies.

How can I start the conversation with a teenager I know?

If the young person in question is your child, it is critical to avoid immediately blaming yourself. If you do, you may be sapping yourself and, in turn, your child, of the hope that positive change is possible. If you and your adolescent are ready, there are some useful ways you can prepare for a difficult conversation with them:

• Be sensitive and try not to jump to conclusions: Let them know that you’re coming from a place of love and concern, not judgement. Teenagers strive most days to find someone they feel is truly listening to them, so be that person for this conversation.
• Be honest about what you know (and don’t know): It is okay to admit to an adolescent that you don’t have all the answers. Teenagers often understand when this is the case, so they must know you’ll stand by their side when they get help.
• Use “I statements” to remain empathetic: By using “I statements,” you can keep the conversation’s focus on your concern, rather than the things they’re doing wrong. Try phrases like “I understand you’re going through a rough time. Can you tell me how you’ve been getting on recently?”
• Research and then propose professional treatment: If the conversation confirms your fears, you’ll be better prepared if you already know about local services or treatment options. Letting them know calmly might show them that solutions are out there, and you’re ready to help them with the next step.

Where can I find specialist support for an addicted teenager?

Supporting a teenager through addiction can feel overwhelming, leaving parents and carers drained and unsure where to turn. You don’t have to face this journey alone, and neither does the child.

At Oasis Runcorn, we provide specialist adolescent addiction care that meets young people at their level. From medical detox and tailored therapy to long-term aftercare, our programmes get to the roots of addiction while helping families rebuild themselves as a unit.

Reach out today. The sooner support is in place, the sooner an adolescent can get the help they need and truly deserve.