#245 – Why Teens Use Substances And How To Help Prevent It episode artwork

EPISODE · Jan 22, 2026 · 15 MIN

#245 – Why Teens Use Substances And How To Help Prevent It

from Speaking of Teens · host Ann Coleman, J.D.

In today's episode I break down the neuroscience behind why teens are so vulnerable to substance use—and explain what you can actually do about it.If you're worried about your teen using alcohol, vaping, or marijuana, this episode is for you.I explain how the adolescent brain's reward system, weak prefrontal cortex, and neuroplasticity create the perfect storm for risky behavior.But here's the good news: the majority of teens do NOT use substances, and I'm sharing 4 science-backed strategies to help your teen stay in that majority.You can watch this episode on YouTube as well!Show Notes and TranscriptFind our FREE Parenting Guides Here"I just wanted to let you know that I'm so thankful for your podcast! ...I'm so happy I discovered it!" Speaking of Teens Listener^If you feel the same way, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps people know the show is worth their time to listen. Tap here, to go to Apple podcasts, and scroll down until you see the STARS to tap on the last star, then tap on “Write a Review” and let me know what you love about the show. If you’re listening in Spotify, you can also rate the show by going to the main episode page and tap the 3 dots to the right of the follow button, tap rate show and tap the 5th star!Thank you in advance for helping me help more parents!3-Session Coaching Package - 3, hour-long one-to-one coaching sessions with me, Ann Coleman to help you through whatever issues you are currently expereincing with your teenager. 1-hour of One-to-One Coaching - If you just need a quick, 1-hour coaching session to figure out a specific issue with your teen, book a call with me.Check out PARENT CAMP - a cohort-based, 10-week experience that includes a virtual course, in-depth exercises and tools, and weekly live meetings with Ann, where you will learn how to strengthen your relationship and decrease the conflict with your teens and tweens (while improving their behavior.)The 5-Day Reboot: From Conflict to Cooperation - receive bite-sized lessons in your in-box for 5 days that will make a huge difference between you and your teen...for under $50!Check out the podcast on YouTube!Email Ann at [email protected] Connect with us on Facebook or Instagram  Read ...

Episode metadata supplied by the publisher feed · Published Jan 22, 2026

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In today's episode I break down the neuroscience behind why teens are so vulnerable to substance use—and explain what you can actually do about it. If you're worried about your teen using alcohol, vaping, or marijuana, this episode is for you. I explain how the adolescent brain's reward system, weak prefrontal cortex, and neuroplasticity create the perfect storm for risky behavior. But here's the good news: the majority of teens do NOT use substances, and I'm sharing 4 science-backed strategi...

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#245 – Why Teens Use Substances And How To Help Prevent It

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This episode was published on January 22, 2026.

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