- Adolescents are most likely to begin abusing substances like tobacco, alcohol, and illegal drugs due to a desire for new experiences and peer pressure. Trying drugs fulfills developmental needs in an unhealthy way with long-term consequences. - Factors influencing adolescent drug use include availability of drugs, family environment, genetic traits, mental health, and beliefs about drugs. Repeated drug use can lead to addiction and pose serious social and health risks. - Counseling plays an important role in managing substance abuse issues by using cognitive, behavioral, and family systems techniques to help patients understand problems and make new habits to replace destructive ones.