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Understanding how to help

Understanding how to help

Why do young people use drugs?

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Young people use drugs for all sorts of different reasons. As carers, it helps to understand that there is almost always some function and meaning for a young person.

Although it might seem obvious to an adult that the use of drugs or alcohol is causing problems, the reasons behind the use are normally valid and understandable ones and young people who use drugs are normally trying to meet the same needs as most other young people.

SOME COMMON REASONS YOUNG PEOPLE SAY THEY USE DRUGS OR ALCOHOL ARE:

To stop being bored
To help unwind and relax
To help sleep
To get motivated
To help with painful feelings-grief, anxiety, anger
To slow down racing thoughts
To fit in
To just feel good
To feel comfortable in social situations
To have interesting ideas and be creative
To relive pain
So problems aren’t as much of a bother
To help with side effects from medication

It is not always obvious which of these (or any other) reasons are behind why someone you care about uses drugs or alcohol. You don’t have to condone or “be alright” with drug or alcohol use but acknowledging that there are reasons can help promote a supportive and empathetic approach to the person you care about.

In fact, for a young person to make changes to their use, they will need to learn other ways that fulfil the needs currently met by drugs or alcohol.

Check out our articles on how you can help a young person.

The reasons behind the use are normally valid and understandable ones and normally the same needs as most young people have.

Get help now

YoDAA is a free and confidential online and phone service that offers supports to young people, families and professionals. You can contact 9am -8pm Monday to Friday.

Further Reading

setting a goal for your drug use YoDAA

Staying as safe as you can ‹ YoDAA

What will not using or reducing my use feel like? YoDAA —

Limits and Consequences | YoDAA

Will they grow out of this? | YoDAA

The role of family in overcoming drug problems | YoDAA

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