Unfortunately, young people continue to experiment with a wide variety of illegal drugs in the state of Georgia. Over the last 20 years, the number of young people using cocaine has been declining at a steady rate. However, there are still a significant number who choose to use the drug, and they can suffer from addiction as well as legal consequences.
If you have a child who is using cocaine in the state of Georgia, it is important that you educate yourself on the state-specific laws that are held in relation to the drug. You should additionally not underestimate the effect that cocaine use can have on your child’s brain.
How does cocaine affect the brain of a teenager?
During a person’s teenage years, their brain is still growing and developing. Therefore, contact with any illegal drug does have the potential to affect the way that the child’s brain develops. Scientific studies have shown that when a teenager becomes exposed to cocaine, their brain tends to act defensively and actually changes the shape of brain cells in order to protect itself from the drug.
What environmental factors can increase the risk for addiction?
A teenager is more at risk of drug addiction if a person in their family has a history of drug or alcohol abuse. In addition, early experimentation of drugs increases the likelihood that they will struggle with addiction at a later date. The method of use also affects the intensity of the experience, and can influence how addictive the drug becomes for the teen.
What are the legal consequences for possession of cocaine by teens in Georgia?
Possession of cocaine in the state of Georgia is defined as any amount under 28g found in the possession of a person. Cocaine possession is a very serious offense, and it will likely be charged as a felony, with a minimum of two years’ imprisonment. The offender may also face community service or a driver’s license suspension.
If you are concerned about your teen’s drug use in the state of Georgia, it is important that you talk to them about the legal consequences of their actions, as well as about the treatment options available.