According to the National Center for Addiction and Substance Abuse at Columbia University, the number prescriptions written by doctors went up by 154 percent from 1992 to 2002. Prescription drug abuse is a growing problem in the United States, particularly among teens. The same study showed that in 2003, 9.3 percent of teens admitted to prescription drug abuse within the last year. This was a dramatic 212% increase from the numbers found in past research.

These drugs are easier for teens to access because they can find them in their own bathroom at home. When obtained this way, prescription drug abuse is a free habit. They can also get prescription drugs from pharmacies online without having proper authorization from a doctor. There is a common misconception by young people that the drugs are safe simply because they’re not illegal and the government oversees the industry.

Teens get involved in prescription drug abuse for a variety of reasons. They might be want to experiment and think that this is the safest option. Teens often don’t think it’s a big deal because they see “everyone else” doing it. They might be trying to have fun, feel smarter, be more creative, and improve concentration. Or, they might be trying to avoid emotional or physical pain. Examples of this are to relieve stress, cope with a traumatic event, or be rebellious through drug abuse. Teenagers who have trouble fitting in or who are depressed have a higher risk of a prescription drug problem.

Addiction treatment programs are widely available to help people with prescription drug addictions. There are even specific treatment centers for teenagers and young adults. For a mild problem, other options such as individual counseling and addiction support groups are available. Getting help as soon as possible improves chances of recovery and makes the process easier.