Five Things to Know About Adolescents' Brain Development and Use

by Thomas J. Crowley, M.D., Elizabeth Whitmore, Ph.D.

Learn more about the particular ways that substance use threatens the still-developing adolescent brain.

1. The brain's "front end," the part above the eyes, exists to slow us down or stop our impulsive behaviors. It considers the risks and benefits of our actions, and it helps us "hit the brakes" when we consider doing things that are too risky.
2. This front part of the brain is still developing connections to the rest of the brain until adulthood, so adolescents' brains lack some of the "wiring" that carries "brake" or "stop" messages to the rest of the brain.
3. Drugs of abuse are often available to adolescents. These drugs feel good, but they can be very harmful. Lacking some of the wiring for the "stop" message, adolescents' brains may not fully weigh the risks of drug use.
4. The two drugs that cause the most death are also the most available drugs: tobacco and alcohol. Late adolescence, before the brain is fully matured, is the peak time for developing dependence on these (and other) drugs.
5. Heavy drug use during times of critical brain development may cause permanent changes in the way the brain works and responds to rewards and consequences. Therefore, it is important to begin to address a developing substance use problem as early as possible.

Concerning Behaviors to Look for in an Adolescent Who Might be Using Drugs

Changes in school performance (falling grades, skipping school, tardiness)
Changes in peer group (hanging out with drug-using, antisocial, older friends)
Breaking rules at home, school, in the community
Extreme mood swings, depression, irritability, anger, negative attitude
Sudden increases or decreases in activity level
Withdrawal from the family; keeping secrets
Changes in physical appearance (weight loss, lack of cleanliness, strange smells)
Red, watery, glassy eyes or runny nose not due to allergies or cold
Changes in eating or sleeping habits
Lack of motivation or interest in things other teenagers enjoy (hobbies, sports)
Lying, stealing, hiding things
Using street or drug language or possession of drug paraphernalia/items
Cigarette smoking