The use and abuse of alcohol and other drugs during adolescence and early adulthood remains a health problem serious in the United States. Among drug classes, alcohol is the substance most frequently used by adolescents, followed by marijuana and tobacco. The consequences of alcohol and drug abuse are critical on both a personal and social level. For the developing young adult, drug and alcohol abuse threatens motivation, impairs cognitive processes, increases the risk of accidental injury or death, and contributes to debilitating mood disorders. Additionally, it contributes to academic failure, juvenile delinquency, increased mental health services, and high health care costs. Often, there are underlying mental health issues that go undiagnosed or existing conditions that are medicated, which can invariably lead to an increase in alcohol and substance use disorders among adolescents. There are myriad cultural and societal risk factors that contribute to adolescent alcohol and drug use. A risk factor is defined as “any attribute, characteristic, or exposure of an individual that increases the likelihood of developing a disease or injury.” These risk factors can be identified by family history of substance use disorders, feelings of inferiority, pleasure-seeking, low self-esteem, unemployment, low social support, desire for experiencing and low social support (Thomas, NL, Naregal, PM, Mohite, VR, Tata, SH, Karale, RB & Kakade, SV (2015).) The risk of substance abuse increases significantly during periods of transition, as a change school, a move or a divorce. Other peer-related risk factors include involvement in gangs or reinforcement of negative norms and expectations within a peer group, lack of academic knowledge... middle of article.. .... this disorder gets worse every day and can have serious consequences. not only for the user but also for family, friends and innocent bystanders. They can range from legal consequences to more serious consequences such as acquiring an STD, overdose, or death. Just like adults, adolescents can become dependent and give up important responsibilities and activities. The more risk factors they are exposed to, the more likely they are to have access to the medications of their choice. Fortunately, there are many treatment and prevention methods that are used to help reduce the initiation of a particular substance or to help those affected by this condition. Many adolescents with a substance use disorder also have one or more physical disorders, whether due to or prior to drug use. This aspect will be important for the diagnosis and treatment of substance use disorders..