Teens and steroids are a dangerous combination. There are many reasons why teens may be tempted to use steroids, including peer pressure, the desire for greater athletic performance or physical appearance, and a lack of knowledge about the risks associated with steroid use. Teen steroid abuse is a significant problem because of the negative health consequences that can result.
Among all drugs abused by teens, steroids are not the most popular, but they can be highly damaging. Boys are more likely than girls to use them, but all teens are susceptible to the temptation to use these drugs to bulk up and perform better as athletes.
If you or a loved one are worried about teen steroid abuse or want more information on teen steroid use, contact The Right Step at 17135283709. Our young adult drug addiction treatment offers programs designed specifically for teens, with a focus on the underlying causes of steroid use and abuse. We can help you or your loved one overcome this dangerous behavior and start living a healthy, happy life.
What Are Steroids?
The steroids that are abused by people hoping to build muscles are called anabolic-androgenic steroids. The term anabolic refers to the fact that they build muscle structures, and androgenic refers to the ability to confer male characteristics to the user. These steroids are prescription medications that are synthetic forms of the male hormone testosterone. There are valid reasons for doctors to prescribe these steroids to people with certain disorders. To take them without a prescription is illegal.
Teens and Steroids
With the pressure put on some teens to perform and succeed in athletics, it can be tempting to resort to drugs to get an edge. Teens may not fully understand the risks and health consequences associated with teen steroid use, and they can result in significant harm. Some of the possible side effects include:
- Mood swings
- Liver damage
- Heart problems
- Acne
- Infertility
Taking steroids can cause stunted growth because the teenage body is still growing and developing. Steroids can also accelerate the progression of puberty. Even more harmful is the fact that steroids can damage the liver and kidneys and can cause heart problems and high blood pressure. A young, healthy person taking steroids may have a heart attack or stroke.
In addition to the serious health consequences, steroids can cause other changes to the teenage body. In boys, it can cause the testicles to shrink, breast growth, infertility, and baldness. In girls, steroids may cause baldness, facial hair, changes in menstruation, and a deeper voice that may be permanent. Steroids also cause behavioral changes such as depression, irritability, and severe mood swings that can lead a teen to lash out at others unexpectedly.
Steroid use is nothing to be complacent about. Teens who use steroids put themselves at significant risk and should immediately seek treatment for their steroid use. At the time, it may seem like a great idea, but it is one that they will later regret. Adults working with teens and parents are responsible for monitoring young people and educating them about the dangers of abusing steroids.
Discover Treatment for Teen Steroid Abuse at The Right Step
Treatment for teen steroid addiction can help your loved one get the help they need to overcome this dangerous and unhealthy behavior. At The Right Step, we offer specialized programs designed just for teens struggling with drug misuse. Our caring team of professionals will work with you and your teen to understand the underlying causes of steroid abuse, identify triggers, and develop a personalized recovery plan. We can help your teen build the skills and confidence they need to live a healthy, happy life. Contact us today to learn more about our programs at 17135283709.
