1.

The use of substances of abuse by adolescents, including experimentation is opposed.

2.

Early identification and other substance use preventive measures should receive high
priority. Programs to target both primary and secondary prevention should be developed and strengthened in all aspects of community life including schools and should include educational materials for youth as well as parents, teachers, counselors and others working with young people. Screening and identification should prompt appropriate referral for intervention. In addition, inquiry about substance use should be a routine part of psychiatric and other medical assessments for all adolescents.

3.

Treatment of substance use disorders is effective in improving outcomes. Psychiatrists should support treatment for adolescents with substance use problems by appropriate screening, diagnosis, treatment, referral and coordination of care.

4.

Research is an indispensable tool in understanding all aspects of drug use and treatment. Therefore, continuing support should be given to basic, clinical, epidemiological, prevention, and treatment research in adolescent substance use.

5.

Attitudes of peers, family, and others toward substance use impacts an adolescent’s risk of substance use. Media is an important exposure for many adolescents to substance use and its contexts. Media should reduce their emphasis on and positive depictions of substance use, including alcohol and nicotine use. In addition, advertisements and other media formats should continue to inform the public of the risks and consequences of alcohol, nicotine and illicit drug use.

6.

Government, industry, media, and other organizations have important influence on public policy and youth in a variety of ways. The APA, its branches, and individual psychiatrists, along with other professionals, should continue to advocate for policies that discourage substance use among youth and promote treatment of substance use disorders. They should advocate that coverage of substance use and other mental health disorders be in parity with that of other medical conditions.

7.

Local and national professional groups should conduct appropriate training and continuing education programs regarding adolescent substance use.

8.

Medical schools and residency training programs should include comprehensive didactic and clinical education about adolescent substance use in order to prepare physicians to recognize and address this problem in their patients and communities.