Every parent wants their kids to be drug free. Sadly, peer pressure can lead a child down the wrong path. At Fastest Labs we have testing solutions that start as low as $29 to ensure your child is drug free. But what are some of the drugs your child may be taking?
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), marijuana, prescription drugs, and alcohol are the most commonly abused substances among teenagers in the United States. Here are some statistics related to each:
- Marijuana: In 2020, 39.5% of high school seniors reported using marijuana in the past year. Additionally, the percentage of high school seniors who perceive regular marijuana use as harmful has been steadily declining since the mid-2000s.
- 21.2% of high school seniors reported using nicotine (specifically, electronic cigarettes or vaping devices) in the past 30 days. This represents a significant increase in use compared to previous years, and it is a cause for concern given the potential risks and health effects associated with vaping. Additionally, nicotine use can lead to addiction and can serve as a gateway to other substance use. It is important for parents and educators to educate young people about the potential risks of nicotine use and to encourage healthy habits and behaviors.
- Prescription drugs: After marijuana and alcohol, prescription and over-the-counter medications are the most commonly abused substances by Americans ages 14 and older. In a 2020 survey by NIDA, 9.9% of high school seniors reported misusing prescription drugs in the past year.
- Using the same study, the percentage of high school seniors who reported using ecstasy (also known as MDMA) in the past year was 2.9%. This represents a decrease in use from previous years, but it is still a significant concern given the potential risks and dangers associated with ecstasy use. It is important for parents and educators to remain vigilant and educate young people about the potential consequences of drug use.
- Alcohol: According to NIDA, alcohol is the most commonly used substance among teenagers in the United States. In 2020, 50.1% of high school seniors reported consuming alcohol in the past month.
- We have heard a lot about fentanyl recently. Fentanyl is a potent synthetic opioid that is highly addictive and can be lethal in small amounts. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), fentanyl has become a major contributor to the opioid epidemic in the United States. In 2019, synthetic opioids (including fentanyl) were involved in nearly 70% of opioid-related overdose deaths.
- It is important to note that fentanyl is not commonly used recreationally by teenagers, and it is typically obtained through illegal sources such as drug dealers. However, fentanyl-laced counterfeit pills and other drugs have become increasingly common, which can pose a serious risk to anyone who uses these substances.
- Overall, while fentanyl use among teenagers may not be as prevalent as some other drugs, it is a major concern in the broader context of the opioid epidemic and the risks associated with using illegal drugs.
It is important for parents to consider drug testing their children for several reasons. Drug use can lead to negative consequences such as impaired cognitive function, decreased academic performance, legal problems, and addiction. Additionally, early intervention and detection can prevent further substance abuse and help teens get the support they need to overcome any issues they may be facing.
By drug testing their children, parents can also demonstrate their concern and care for their child's well-being. It can be helpful to have open and honest conversations with children about drug use and the potential consequences, and to set clear expectations and boundaries.
If you have questions please call the experts at Fastest Labs and we can help you further understand the best way to ensure your children remain drug free.