CDC Report Finds That Teens Turn to Drugs for Stress Relief and Mental Health Struggles

February 10, 2024

New research from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reveals that teens
often turn to drugs to manage stress, anxiety, and depression. The study analyzed data from
nearly 16,000 teens aged 13–18 between 2014 and 2022, focusing on motivations for drug and
alcohol use.

The common reasons adolescents reported using substances included to feel relaxed or calm
(73%), to have fun or experiment (50%), to improve sleep (44%), to forget a problem or bad
memories (44%), to make something less boring (41%), and to cope with anxiety or depression
(40%). Marijuana was the most commonly reported substance (84%), followed by alcohol
(49%), then prescription drugs (21%). Notably, the study found that 50 percent of adolescents
reported using substances alone. Solo use increases the risk of drug poisoning, especially with
counterfeit pills.

These findings underscore the need for early mental health interventions and parental
involvement. Open communication, education on drug poisoning risks, and access to naloxone
are crucial.

Read the study.