How substance use interferes with brain development

Did you know our brains continue developing until we’re about 25 years old?

It’s easy to see the effects of brain development in babies and toddlers. They are quickly learning many things such as how to smile, wave, crawl and walk in their first 12 months. Yet many important phases of brain development continue to occur throughout the teenage and young adult years.

Knowing a bit about brain development can help you know how to best support young people in your life. This information can also help young people understand more about their own brain development – and perhaps help them reconsider certain activities. This is important in talking with young people about using substances such as drugs and alcohol.

Differences in how the teenage brain works

The brain is made up of multiple parts that have different responsibilities, including the cerebellum, and the frontal, parietal, occipital and temporal lobes. 

Prefrontal cortex

The front part of the brain, which handles functions such as reasoning and problem solving, doesn’t develop until the teenage years. 

Amygdala

As the front of the brain develops, adolescents and teens rely on the amygdala to make decisions and solve problems. This part of the brain is associated with emotions, impulses, aggression and instinctive behavior. That’s why you may see some adolescents participate in risky behaviors or act impulsively.

Neurotransmitters and neural circuits

These connections in the brain also play a role in brain functioning by carrying information throughout the brain. During adolescence, these connections are being strengthened to help the brain connect all the dots for full functioning as an adult.

Substance use interferes with critical brain development

The areas of the brain developing in the teenage years and early twenties also stimulate young people to explore the world and new activities. Unfortunately, this can involve experimentation with alcohol, tobacco and drugs. These substances can directly interfere with the parts of the brain that are in critical stages of development. They can also potentially lead to psychiatric disorders. That’s why there can be significant consequences of youth substance abuse.

Common problems when substance use interferes with healthy brain development

Parents and caregivers may observe a range of effects on the brain.

• behavioral changes and challenges
• memory and learning barriers
• mental health issues such as anxiety and depression
• addiction risk.

Use of nicotine, THC, alcohol and opioids all can impact the brain in different ways – from a lack of motivation to potential long-term cognitive challenges, and addiction. 

• Because of their impact on both brain structure and function, opioids can have serious and long-lasting effects on adolescent brain development. 
• When used in excess, the effects of alcohol on teenage brain development can include memory impairment, decision-making challenges and long-term deficits. 
• For adolescents, the dangers of using electronic cigarettes includes harming part of the brain that control attention and learning and a permanent lowering of impulse control. 

In general, health care professionals agree, the effects of drug use on the brain are detrimental to young people.

Supporting healthy brain development in adolescents

You can learn more about brain development in teenagers through Change to Chill, a program offered by Allina Health. Having a basic understanding of the effects of substance use on brains can prepare you with some conversation starters with young people. 

Talking to your teen about substance use

Be mindful of the language you use when connecting with young people on this topic. Remember to listen and validate emotions, even when they don’t make sense to you. 

Key phrases to consider

• I’m here to listen, not judge. What’s on your mind?
• I want you to know you can always talk to me about anything, even if it feels hard or scary.
• That sounds tough, thank you for sharing with me.

Model healthy habits

You can also model the kind of self-regulation and problem-solving skills you’d like to see in the young people in your life. Consider practicing healthy coping skills together and providing consultation and support when they may be struggling. Be open to giving space when needed to promote healthy independence. 

Keep a close eye on your medicine cabinet

Leftover prescriptions for medications such as OxyContin® and Norco® can be tempting for young people to try. Be sure to properly dispose of drugs you no longer need.