Adolescent Substance use and Abuse: Recognition and Management

This article examines substance use & abuse among American adolescents. Topics discussed include: scope & prevalence; etiology & pathophysiology; screening & diagnosis; confidentiality; treatment; & the assessment of suicide risk. Ongoing suicide assessment is recommended throughout treatment, including asking about ideation, intention, & planning. Adolescents who are intoxicated are at high risk of dying by suicide or injuring others through accidents or violence. Parents should be advised to remove guns or other weapons from the adolescent’s possession. If harm is imminent, adolescents should be hospitalized. (35 refs.)