Drug Addiction and Its Psychological Dangers for Adolescents and Young People

Drug addiction is a chronic and recurring mental health disorder defined by an individual’s inability to control substance use and the continuation of this behavior despite physical, psychological, and social harm. Substance use that begins during adolescence and young adulthood can have far more destructive consequences for individuals who are in a developmentally sensitive stage of life.

Adolescence is a period marked by identity formation, the desire for independence, emotional fluctuations, and a strong need for social acceptance. During this time, young people may turn to drugs as a way to cope with stress, fill emotional voids, or adapt to their social environment. While this may offer temporary escape, it can lay the groundwork for long-term psychological dependence.

Psychological Effects of Drug Use

Drugs directly affect the brain’s reward and pleasure systems, disrupting an individual’s ability to regulate emotions. Over time, substance use ceases to be a source of pleasure and becomes something the individual needs in order to feel normal. In young people, this process is often associated with:

- Anxiety disorders

- Depressive mood states

- Impulse control problems

- Anger outbursts

- Social withdrawal and isolation

As substance use progresses, academic performance may decline, family relationships may deteriorate, and social circles may shrink. As the young person attempts to suppress emotional difficulties through substance use, psychological vulnerability increases.

Psychological Support and the Psychologist’s Approach

Drug addiction cannot be explained solely by a lack of willpower. Psychologists address this process holistically, considering the individual’s life history, emotional needs, coping skills, and environmental factors.

During psychological support, the therapist listens without judgment, blame, or labeling. The goal is to understand the emotional voids, traumatic experiences, stressors, and learned coping patterns underlying substance use. This approach fosters trust in therapy and encourages active participation in the process.

Therapy focuses on:

- Developing emotional awareness

- Acquiring healthy coping skills

- Managing stress and anxiety

- Strengthening self-esteem and self-concept

- Identifying triggering situations

Characteristics of the Therapy Process When Working with Youth

In therapy with young individuals, the therapeutic relationship and sense of trust play a central role. The therapist creates a safe space where the young person can express themselves freely. School life, peer relationships, and family dynamics are included in the therapeutic assessment.

When necessary, sessions with family members may also be conducted. However, confidentiality is a core principle of therapy. Personal information shared by the young person is protected within ethical guidelines and is shared with family only in situations involving the individual’s safety. This approach strengthens commitment to therapy and openness in the process.

The Role of the Family in the Psychological Support Process

Family members represent an important support system in the recovery of young individuals. Psychologists provide psychoeducation to families about addiction, helping them replace blaming, controlling, or overprotective attitudes with supportive and understanding approaches.

Strengthening family communication, establishing healthy boundaries, and rebuilding trust are key factors that enhance the effectiveness of therapy.

The Importance of Professional Psychological Support

Drug addiction is a condition that can be treated when addressed early. Psychological support aims not only to stop substance use but also to help individuals restructure their relationship with life.

Therapy supported by professional care increases emotional resilience, strengthens the ability to make healthy choices, and contributes to breaking the cycle of addiction in the long term.

Seeking psychological support in the fight against drug addiction is a strong, evidence-based step toward protecting an individual’s future.