Substanzbezogene Suchtstörungen im Kindes- und Jugendalter

Adolescence is characterized by processes of change and adaptation. The experimental and risky use of addictive substances is widespread in this phase of life.

Developmental psychology, epidemiology and clinical appearance of substance use disorders in childhood and adolescence, presentation of diagnostic requirements and treatment recommendations.

Evaluation of the scientific literature on development-related determinants of addiction, analysis of the care situation in Germany, discussion of age-specific and disorder-specific treatment concepts and description of needs.

Adolescents are frequently affected by alcohol-related and cannabis-related addictive disorders. Numerous biological, psychological, social and environmental conditions influence consumption-related behavior. Easily available substances pose a high risk of addiction. Cannabis-related addiction disorders are particularly common in clinical care. Age-specific and disorder-specific treatment recommendations are available in the child and adolescent psychiatric care system, which significantly differ from the care structures of adult psychiatry. These include educational and age-appropriate psychosocial support programs to accompany treatment, which take account of the high level of comorbidities and developmental requirements.

Young people are particularly vulnerable to the health risks associated with the use of psychoactive substances due to the immature organism. A guideline-compliant implementation of qualified withdrawal treatment enables a high quality standard with good treatment results.