Substance abuse and addiction are complex and dangerous issues with challenges that are compounded when the affected individual is a teenager, as drugs and alcohol can modify the developing brain and negatively influence physical health.

Teens may be drawn to use substances for a number of reasons. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), adolescents are likely to use drugs.

1. To fit in or socialize with people their age.

2.To improve their mood.

3. To self-medicate undiagnosed or untreated mental health conditions.

4.To perform at higher levels in and out of school.

5.To explore new experiences.

To gain a better understanding of teen drug abuse, it helps to understand which substances are most commonly abused by teens and why.

The following are the 10 substances most commonly used substances by teens and adolescents.

1. Alcohol

2. Marijuana

3. Nicotine

4. Adderall

5. Opioids

6. Tranquilizers

7. Spice/K2

8. Hallucinogens

9. Inhalants

10. DXM