Children who experiment with drugs, alcohol at greater risk of addiction

Los Angeles Centers for Alcohol and Drug Abuse (L.A. CADA) reminds the public that National Drug & Alcohol Facts Week happens March 21-27.

City officials have recognized the dedication of local substance use disorder treatment workers and the community organizations who have been working daily with youth and families. National Drug & Alcohol Facts Week is a time to talk about the science of drug use and addiction among youth. 

Youth drug abuse is a high-profile public health concern – at least 1-in-8 teenagers used an illicit substance in the last year. The COVID-19 pandemic created significant disruptions in the lives of children and adolescents, and studies have shown many young people experienced greater rates of anxiety, depression, and other mental health problems. Stress is a common reason for drug and alcohol use among youth, as well as adults. 

Research also shows that when people drink and use drugs at a young age, their risk for addiction in middle-age increases. L.A. CADA reminds you:

  • 139.8 million Americans 12 and over drink alcohol

  • 14.8 million or 10.6% of them have an alcohol use disorder

  • 58.8 million people use tobacco

  • 31.9 million use illegal drugs

  • 8.1 million of 25.4% of illegal drug users have a drug use disorder

  • 2 million people or 24.7% of those with drug disorders have an opioid disorder; this includes prescription pain relievers or “painkillers” and heroin

To learn more about youth drug and alcohol use, attend one of the local workshops sponsored by Los Angeles Centers for Alcohol and Drug Abuse:

Monday, March 21 from 2-4:30 p.m.: Prescription Drugs & Opioids at 14181 Telegraph Road, Whittier 

Tuesday March 22, from 3-6 p.m.: Underage Drinking at 13000 Clarkdale Avenue, Norwalk

Wednesday, March 23, from 3-6 pm: Vaping, Marijuana, and Stress at 10068 Cedardale Dr. Santa Fe Springs

Thursday, March 24, from 3-6 p.m.: Meth, Prescription Stimulants, and Mental Health at 9515 Haney St, Pico Rivera

Friday, March 25, from 3-6 p.m.: Community Resource Fair with Concert and Art Show at 10210 Orr and Day Rd. Santa Fe Springs

Call L.A. CADA for more information at (562) 348-0083.


Health, NewsStaff Report