Anxiety, Stress, trauma, and mental health

There is no single reason why a young person may use substances. Some experiences or situations may increase a young person’s risk for substance use or mental health challenges, including:

  • Academic pressure

  • Trauma or adverse experiences 

  • Social media comparison traps

  • Social isolation or bullying

  • Friendships and romantic relationships

  • Family responsibilities or tension

  • Future expectations and uncertainties 

  • Exposure to substances through peers and social situations

Some youth may turn to substances like alcohol, cannabis, nicotine, or other drugs as a way to cope with stress, fit in socially, or manage difficult emotions. Sometimes, teens are just bored and looking for ways to, in their words, “have fun.”

While some experimentation or risk-taking behaviors can be part of development, substance use can impact a young person’s brain, emotional health, relationships, academic success, and safety.

Mental health factors

Some youth may turn to substances as a way to cope with difficult emotions or experiences. Stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, and emotional pain can increase the risk of substance use.

Youth today may experience pressure related to:

• School and academics

• Social relationships

• Family conflict

• Financial stress

• dentity and belonging

• Social media

• Bullying or discrimination

For some youth, substances may temporarily feel like a way to:

• Reduce anxiety

• Escape emotional pain

• Feel more confident socially

• Manage stress

• Numb difficult emotions

However, substance use can often make mental health challenges worse over time.

Signs they may be struggling

For some youth, substances may temporarily feel like a way to:

• Reduce anxiety

• Escape emotional pain

• Feel more confident socially

• Manage stress

• Numb difficult emotions

How you can help

Early support and connection can have a lasting positive impact on a young person’s mental health and well-being.

• Listen calmly and without judgment

• Validate emotions and experiences

• Encourage healthy coping strategies

• Seek professional support when needed

• Remind youth they are not alone

How you can help

Supportive relationships help youth build resilience and make healthier decisions over time.

  • Set clear and consistent expectations

  • Talk openly about risks and safety

  • Encourage healthy coping skills

  • Create opportunities for positive activities and connections

  • Model healthy behaviors