Growing up can be a challenging time for girls, as they navigate hormonal changes, social pressures, academic stress, and first relationships. As we approach Women’s Health Care month in May, it is an important time to look at how young teen girls are coping with life’s challenges by engaging in addictive behaviors. By understanding these behaviors, we can better help solve them and lead young women to a life of well-being. Some of the most common challenges for teenage girls include the following:
Teen Girls & Social Media Addiction:
As Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok have taken over the teenage social scene, teenage girls are spending more time online and internet addiction is becoming more prevalent. Social isolation, poor academic performance, and even physical health problems can be caused by these addictions. Signs of social media addiction to look for include:
- An intense urge to check social media regularly, even when not necessary.
- Feelings of anxiousness and irritability when social media is not accessible
- Abandoning other responsibilities or activities in order to spend excessive time on social media.
- Spending more time on social media than on personal hygiene or sleep.
- Using social media in an unhealthy manner and experiencing a decline in academic or social performance.
Teen Girls & Eating Disorders:
Teenage girls are also prone to eating disorders, such as anorexia and bulimia. It is common for people to develop these disorders in order to control their weight and body image, which can have an adverse effect on their mental and physical health. Research is also suggesting eating disorders and social media as having a link. This can be due to cyberbullying a teenage girl may encounter online, which in turn causes her psychological distress and body image issues. There is also the comparison mode girls can go into as they are presented with the socially acceptable body image online that can lead to disordered eating behaviors.
Teen Girls & Addiction to Drugs and Alcohol:
In particular, teenage girls are at risk of substance abuse, which is one of the most common addictions among teens. Stress, anxiety, or other emotional issues may cause teenage girls to turn to drugs or alcohol. Sadly, substance abuse has serious consequences, such as addiction, health problems, and even death. It is also associated with risky behaviors and teen pregnancy. For young women, the choices they make now can affect not only them but others for their lifetime and beyond.
In order to prevent teenage girls from experiencing these forms of addictions, it is essential to provide them with education and resources. Early identification and treatment can be life changing and takes the participation of parents, teachers, and healthcare professionals. It is through these actions that teen girls can hopefully make good choices and go one to live a life of health.
If you or a loved one are struggling, Scottsdale Recovery and Detox Center® provides a wide range of services to address substance abuse and mental health issues. Visit scottsdalerecovery.com or call 1-888-NODRUGS for more information and support.
