1#  When examining the various risk factors that adolescents face, such as child abuse and neglect, eating disorders, drug use and abuse, delinquency and antisocial behaviors, as well as academic problems, it can be challenging to determine which poses the greatest risk. However, after careful consideration, I believe that drug use and abuse may present the most significant danger to adolescents.

Drug use and abuse can have far-reaching consequences for young individuals, affecting their physical and mental health, social relationships, academic performance, and overall well-being. Substance abuse can lead to addiction, impaired cognitive function, increased risk-taking behaviors, and even potential legal issues. Moreover, the use of illicit substances can often be a gateway to more severe substance abuse problems and addiction later in life.

While child abuse, neglect, eating disorders, delinquency, and academic problems are undoubtedly serious concerns, the potential long-term effects and widespread impact of drug use and abuse make it a particularly critical risk factor for adolescents. It is crucial for us to address this issue comprehensively by implementing prevention programs, providing education and resources, and fostering a supportive environment for at-risk individuals.

Question for the class: What do you believe are effective strategies that can be employed to prevent and combat adolescent drug use and abuse within our communities? 

2#  There are many risk factors that adolescents face daily. Drug abuse, depression, self-harm, eating disorders, obesity, child abuse, unprotected/risky sexual activity, youth violence, underage drinking, thoughts of suicide, & illegal activities are some of the many factors that adolescents face. 

I believe that suicide thoughts/attempts and self-harm pose the greatest risk to adolescents because these behaviors often lead to the death of the child. Self-harm and suicidal thoughts/attempts can be a sign of mental health issues, depression, worthlessness, hopelessness, extreme emotional pain, and lack of control. Adolescents who self harm or have suicidal thoughts/attempts most times do not wish to die, they just want to escape the pain of their reality. It is very important as mental health workers and parents that we are non-judgmental and take time to listen to what these children are feeling and have to say. 

I am raising my 14 year grandson who has been recently diagnosed with Prodromal schizophrenia Disorder, ADHD, and Bipolar disorder. My grandson has self-harmed himself on numerous occasions. He has threatened suicide in the past and I have had to call 211, 911 and even voluntary services from DCF. I have had my grandson placed in an impatient mental health facility and also an outpatient program. He is currently in an emotional supported private school. I have raised 7 daughters, several other children and also grandchildren who have have various issues growing up. Self-harm & suicidal tendencies have been the hardest thing for me to have to deal with. I have to keep my home safe and free of anything that he may try to use to hurt himself. He has cut himself for a period of time, he has experimented with drugs, and also risky behaviors in school and in the community. He is currently on medication and sees a psychiatrist every 2 weeks. He is constantly on his phone and he doesn't seem to understand the seriousness of his inappropriate social media posts and interactions. It has and continues to be a challenge to get him the help he needs, I worry about him daily. I have buried one child (my daughter Kiara), I don't want to bury another. 

Do you think peer pressure and/or social media are factors that contribute to the risky behavior in adolescents?