Alcoholism and Drug Abuse in Teenagers | Megan Hanley | TEDxBarringtonHighSchool

Summary

Megan shares her journey as a young alcoholic, highlighting the often-hidden struggle with addiction that many teens face. She emphasizes that alcoholism is a disease, akin to diabetes or cancer, which requires ongoing treatment rather than a simple cessation of drinking. Through her experience with depression and anxiety, she learned the importance of self-acceptance and support from friends and family. Megan's recovery journey has led her to volunteer and help others, transforming her shame into empowerment. She encourages open conversations about addiction to combat stigma and inspire hope among those who struggle.

Takeaways

• 😀 Alcoholism is a disease that can affect anyone, regardless of their appearance or background.
• 😀 A significant percentage of addictions begin in the teenage years, with 90% of alcoholics developing their addiction during this time.
• 😀 Many teenagers suffering from alcoholism do not receive the necessary treatment, highlighting a gap in support.
• 😀 Mental health issues such as depression and anxiety often accompany addiction, complicating the recovery process.
• 😀 Early experiences with substances can lead to a cycle of addiction, especially when healthy coping mechanisms are not developed.
• 😀 Admitting to being an alcoholic can be a significant hurdle for teenagers, who may not want to acknowledge their struggles.
• 😀 Recovery is a continuous process that requires ongoing treatment and support, similar to managing other chronic diseases.
• 😀 Stigmas around alcoholism can lead to feelings of shame and isolation, but sharing one’s story can foster connection and understanding.
• 😀 Engaging in community support, such as peer groups, can provide valuable resources and encouragement for recovery.
• 😀 Embracing one’s identity as an alcoholic can lead to personal growth and new opportunities, transforming a perceived negative into a source of strength.

Q & A

What is Megan's view on alcoholism?

Megan sees alcoholism as a disease that is treatable, similar to diabetes or cancer, and emphasizes that it doesn't conform to typical stereotypes.

At what age did Megan first experience alcohol and marijuana?

Megan first experienced alcohol and marijuana in seventh grade.

How did Megan's mental health issues manifest after her initial experience with substances?

After her initial experiences with substances, Megan's depression and anxiety worsened, leading her to struggle with self-harm and negative self-image.

What triggered Megan to return to substance use during her freshman year?

Megan returned to substance use during her freshman year as a way to cope with her worsening depression and anxiety.

What was the outcome of Megan's substance use by the beginning of her sophomore year?

By the beginning of her sophomore year, Megan's substance use was uncovered, leading to her being put into rehab.

What role does Megan believe treatment plays in recovery from alcoholism?

Megan believes that treatment is essential for managing alcoholism, likening it to how cancer patients use chemotherapy to manage their condition.

What are some common myths about alcoholism that Megan addresses?

Megan addresses the myth that simply stopping drinking resolves the issue, explaining that alcoholism is also a mental and thinking disease.

How has Megan's view on her identity as an alcoholic changed over time?

Megan has come to embrace her identity as an alcoholic, recognizing that it has opened up new opportunities and experiences in her life.

What support system does Megan mention in her recovery journey?

Megan mentions her friends, family, and a group of students at her school who share similar struggles and support each other through recovery discussions.

What message does Megan hope to convey to others about addiction?

Megan hopes to convey that people should not be ashamed of their struggles with addiction and that open discussions can help reduce stigma.