"Rising Substance Use Among Teens Linked to Increased Mental Health Risks, CDC Study Finds"

A CDC study found that stress is a major factor driving some teens to use drugs and alcohol, with the most common reasons being to feel calm or relaxed, cope with stress, have fun, or sleep better. The mental health of adolescents in the US has become a significant concern, exacerbated by the challenges of navigating unprecedented stresses, particularly during the Covid-19 pandemic. While there are signs of improvement in mental health, a substantial number of adolescents are still experiencing symptoms of anxiety and depression without receiving adequate treatment. The study also highlights the risks associated with teens using drugs and alcohol alone, especially with the proliferation of counterfeit pills containing potent fentanyl, emphasizing the need for educating adolescents on harm reduction practices and promoting mental health to lessen motivations for substance use.