substance abuse.

A sad topic. But important, I suppose.

TEDS (Treatment Episode Data Set) Report
Link: http://www.samhsa.gov/data/2k12/TEDS_061/TEDS_061_LateAdolescents_2012.pdf

What risks are associated with substance abuse?
There are many. Some of them include detachment in family relationships, increased violent behaviour, poor decision making while under the influence, decreased immune system functioning, damage to brain cells, increased risk of cancer, and ultimately death.

What does Figure 1 graph show?
That from ages 15-17 the primary substance of abuse was marijuana.

Were these results surprising to you? Why or why not?
They actually were. I wasn't aware of how common it was.

Why do you think males are more likely to abuse marijuana than females?
Good question. Maybe because they're more willing to do crazy stuff to get it? Females mostly abused alcohol, which would be easier to get.

At what age would you think most teens are likely to have their first illegal substance use?
Oh oops. I read the article before this question. I would have guessed around 13 though.

What does Figure 3 say?
14 is the most common age of first illegal substance abuse.

Are you surprised by this? Why or why not?
Not really. The early teen years are tough for most people, and if you're with the wrong crowd it would be so easy to succumb to peer pressure.

NSDUH Report
Link: http://www.samhsa.gov/data/2k13/NSDUH099a/sr099a-risk-perception-trends.pdf

Why is age appropriate, credible, and accurate information about the harm associated with substance abuse important?
Because it is more likely to persuade kids not to even start getting involved with substance abuse.

Summarize the findings of the report in 100-200 words.
Polls conducted on different age groups of high schoolers/teens showed that when they perceived a high risk of using marijuana, cocaine, alcohol, or another illegal substance, they were less likely to engage in using it. That being said, teens who did not believe a high risk was associated with using drugs and other harmful stuff were more likely to use them. While this may not depict a direction correlation between the two, it is highly likely that the belief strongly influences the behaviour. This data, which was quite comprehensive and well put together, can help teachers and other youth leaders target the right age groups for specific instruction.