Adolescence is a time when young people explore new ideas and behaviours and develop greater independence. Your child’s brain continues to develop until their mid-20s.
Using alcohol or drugs during adolescence can affect the developing brain and can increase the risk of long-term emotional problems and difficulties with learning, planning and memory. While young people can be influenced by their peers, parents remain an important and trusted source of information.
Trends in substance use can change over time and can vary between different groups. The drug market in Europe is changing rapidly, with new substances emerging regularly. Knowing about drug trends can help you make sense of what your child may be hearing about and support conversations at home. You don’t need to have all the answers. Starting and maintaining a conversation is a good place to begin.
1. Semi-synthetic cannabinoids
New types of cannabinoids are appearing in products sold in shops and on the illicit market in Ireland, including vapes, vape liquids and edibles. Young people may use these products without knowing what they contain. There is limited information about the short- and long-term health effects of some of these substances.
HSE testing has found strong synthetic cannabinoids, sometimes called ‘spice’, in products sold as THC and in products sold in shops. Some products labelled as cannabidiol (CBD) may contain HHC or other cannabinoids instead. You cannot always tell what is in a product from the label alone, or how strong it may be.
2. Inhalants
Inhalant use involves breathing in chemical vapours through the mouth or nose. Common inhalants include aerosols, solvents, gases and other household products that produce chemical vapours. Terms such as ‘chroming’, ‘nagging’ and ‘sniffing’ are used to describe breathing in these substances.
Risks
Inhalants can cause a feeling of intoxication, feelings of euphoria, dizziness, slurred speech, lack of coordination and changes in behaviour.
Using inhalants over time can cause permanent damage to the brain, kidneys and liver. In some cases, inhalants can cause sudden cardiac arrest.
3. Nitrous oxide
Nitrous oxide is a gas that’s commonly found in pressurised canisters. It is also known as ‘laughing’ gas. The gas is usually transferred from these canisters into balloons to inhale.
People use nitrous oxide to feel a quick rush or ‘high’, which can make them feel intoxicated and giddy. It can also make people feel calm, relaxed or less anxious.
Risks
Inhaling nitrous oxide directly from a canister can cause frostbite to the mouth and nose. It can also cause loss of balance, as well as damage the throat and lungs.
Regular or heavy use can lead to vitamin B12 deficiency, nerve damage, pain/tingling in toes and fingers and changes to skin pigmentation. It can also lead to unconsciousness and suffocation.
You do not need to be an expert on every emerging substance. But staying informed, listening without judgement and keeping conversations open can help your child make informed choices and know where to turn if they need support.
Starting the conversation
Talking about substances can feel difficult, but an open and calm conversation can make a difference. It can help young people make informed decisions when faced with choices. They also let young people know that they can come to you with questions or if something goes wrong. The HSE’s ‘Alcohol and Drugs: A Parent’s Guide’ offers practical advice for parents on how to talk about any substances with your teen. Order your free copy on www.HealthPromotion.ie