Understanding Chemical Dependency And The Dangers Related To The Developing Brain

The biggest reason children and adolescents become easily addicted to drugs is that their developing brains absorb so much of the drugs they take that it alters how their brains function. The younger the child, the more issues he or she will have with addictive substances. To better understand how dangerous chemical dependency is to these young addicts, you have to first understand how the developing brain works.

Chemicals Already in the Brain

Pituitary growth hormone regulates the constant growth of children and adolescents. Because the pituitary gland is situated at the base of the brain, the growth hormone travels through the blood vessels of the brain to the rest of the body. It assists with brain growth and development as the head and body grow. Another hormone responsible for the growth of cells in the brain is the thyroid hormone. Working together, these two hormones produce many of the brain's cells, including nerve cells and chemical receptors. Children and adolescents have several more of these cells and receptors than adults do, making their brains more flexible and receptive to medications.

Motor Neurons and Receptors

Motor neurons primarily function as control mechanisms between the brain and spinal cord and the muscles. However, neurons also have receptors--parts of the neurons that receive responses from the body in the form of electrical and biochemical stimuli. With all of the extra nerves, neurons and receptors that children and adolescents have, their bodies are ripe for chemical dependency. The drugs they take are uninhibited by the body's numerous receptors, increasing the effects of those drugs several times over the experience adults have.

Preventing Drug Addiction in Your Child or Teen

Sometimes this is easier said than done. As a parent, you can prevent your children from accessing two of the most commonly abused drugs children have access to-- alcohol and nicotine. If you smoke or enjoy a beer after work, you can prevent your children from partaking by locking up your alcohol and your cigarette supply. Better still, you can quit smoking and/or drinking except for the times when you go out with friends. Painkillers in your medicine cabinet should also be under lock and key. As for street drugs, enrolling your children in after school activities prevents them from being in the wrong place at the wrong time and trying whatever drugs are offered.

Drug Addiction Treatment for Your Child or Adolescent

Recognizing that your child or teen has a drug addiction problem is hard. Getting treatment for him or her is not. Many hospitals and community centers have programs to help, or they can connect you to rehab centers that will help you get your child or teen clean. For more information, see http://www.olalla.org.


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