Girls handle stress - and the anxiety and depression that stress generates - differently than their male counterparts. In fact, stress is one of the most commonly reported factors leading to substance use and abuse for women, and for relapse to substance abuse even after long periods of abstinence.

Why is this so? Stress in early life - or even during the prenatal period - can damage an area of the brain that controls mood regulation, which can predispose to depression and anxiety. And previous research suggests that that these disorders can lead to drug use. A further complication is that circulating female hormones such as estrogen might increase pleasurable response to drugs and precipitate the desire to continue drug use. This means that once girls try drugs, they may be more likely to become addicted more quickly than boys - and find it harder to recover and stay drug free.

More research is needed to understand more fully how gender and environment contribute to the development of substance use disorders. For now, it's critical for parents of girls to recognize how stress - and the development of anxiety and depression - can contribute to drug use. If your child is struggling with anxiety or depression, it's important to consider therapeutic treatment.

Girls Who Party Too Much Face Risks That Boy's Don't

Girls are closing the gender gap when it comes to getting drunk and enjoying wild parties. However, there is new scientific evidence indicating that girls do face more risks when they drink, drug and sex it up compared to boys. And it's not just about unwanted pregnancy. Read more to find out why girls who drink face additional risks than their male counterparts.

Academic Achievement Meets Emotional Growth at Excel Academy

You've recognized that your teen needs help. And you think a therapeutic boarding school might be the answer. But you're concerned that such a program might interfere with your teen's academic progress. So what do you do? The answer is actually more straightforward than you might imagine. Continue reading to find the right therapeutic boarding school for your troubled teen, where your child will get the help he or she needs without having to sacrifice academic progress.

Higher Risks in Early Drinkers

A recent study from the National Institute of Health found that those who began drinking at an early age were significantly more likely to develop a dependence on alcohol, and the dependence is more likely to be chronic and associated with long-term health issues. The NIH took into account such factors as family history of alcoholism, smoking, childhood antisocial behavior, and drug use. Learn why early drinkers face more long-term risks.

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