Jersey Shore, look out! Reuters has reported that researchers have found a link between indoor tanning addiction and drug and alcohol abuse in young women and teens. Of a group that demonstrated signs of indoor tanning addiction, 42% reported to have frequently abused drugs other than marijuana and alcohol, while only 16% of non-tanners reported drug abuse.
This study may illustrate the correlation between obsession with appearances and other signs of low self esteem to teen drug abuse. Teens who look to things on the outside to fix how they feel on the inside are at a greater risk for drug and alcohol abuse. Teen drug and alcohol treatment treats the whole teen. Drug use is a symptom of deeper issues, and it often takes a comprehensive drug program to aid teens on their journey to recovery.
