According to current statistics released by the United States Department of Health and Human Services, “In the United States in 2011, there were approximately 25.1 million adolescents aged 12 to 17. last year, more than a quarter of teens drank alcohol, about a fifth used an illicit drug, and nearly an eighth smoked cigarettes” (“A Day in the Life of American Adolescents,” 2013, para. Substance abuse is a major problem among adolescents. Some people experiment, but some teens may become addicted to a particular substance. If a person becomes addicted to a substance as a teenager, it could harm their future health and success as an adult. Spear (2003) stated in an article titled Effects of Alcohol on Adolescents that if a child begins drinking during adolescence, the risk of alcoholism as an adult is much greater. (slide #3) As a nurse working in an adult inpatient chemical addiction/behavioral health setting, most of my alcohol dependent patients report that they started drinking as teenagers. Because they are currently my patients, they are still struggling with this addiction, even though it may be several years after they have their first sip. I think it is important to target adolescents, educate them and inform them of the consequences that can occur if they introduce substances into their lives. This topic should be discussed with adolescents in all areas of their lives: at home, at school, during extracurricular activities and in youth groups. Reinforcement from multiple people/mentors can have a lasting effect on the child. (slide #4) The impact of alcohol on a growing child is profound. During adolescence (ages 12 to 17), many physiological changes occur. At this age, the child ...... middle of paper ...... t interferes with his or her daily life Ineffective Substance Abuse Management 1. Assess the patient's daily behaviors and habits2. Allow the patient to verbalize their experiences with drugs and alcohol 1. Identifies if the patient suffers from substance abuse2. Identifies if the patient needs therapy, counseling, or rehabilitation services (slide #9) I have found Erik Erikson's theory of stages of psychosocial development to be a useful tool as a nurse creating a plan treatment for a particular patient. His theories provide good insight into how a teenager might perceive their life and how their behaviors will reflect a healthy path to adulthood. Most children this age need reassurance as they go through multiple changes with their bodies, their environment, and their responsibilities. It is important that we guide and educate this age group appropriately.