Understanding Steroid Use Among Teens: Risks, Signs, and Prevention

Understanding Steroid Use Among Teens: Risks, Signs, and Prevention

Anabolic steroids, often referred to as “roids,” are synthetic substances that mimic the effects of the male hormone testosterone. While they have legitimate medical uses, their non-medical use, particularly among teenagers, poses significant health risks. This blog explores why some teens turn to steroids, the associated dangers, and how initiatives like #NotEvenOnce® Projects are making a difference in schools across Australia.

The allure of steroids among adolescents often stems from:

  • Body Image Pressures: Social media platforms, especially TikTok, showcase muscular physiques, leading many teens to believe that achieving such bodies is essential for acceptance and self-worth .

  • Peer Influence: Friends or gym acquaintances may promote steroid use as a shortcut to enhanced physical appearance or athletic performance.

  • Mental Health Struggles: Issues like low self-esteem, anxiety, or depression can drive teens to seek quick fixes, including steroid use, to cope with their emotions.

The Risks of Steroid Use

Using steroids without medical supervision can lead to:

  • Physical Health Issues: Liver damage, cardiovascular problems, hormonal imbalances, and stunted growth in adolescents .

  • Psychological Effects: Increased aggression, mood swings, paranoia, and symptoms of depression .

  • Legal and Social Consequences: Possession and use of steroids without a prescription are illegal in Australia, leading to potential legal repercussions and social stigma.

Impact on the Developing Brain

Adolescence is a critical period for brain development. Introducing synthetic hormones during this time can disrupt normal brain maturation, affecting areas responsible for decision-making, impulse control, and emotional regulation .

Signs of Steroid Use in Teens

Parents, teachers, and peers should be vigilant for:

  • Rapid muscle growth in a short period.

  • Behavioural changes such as increased aggression or mood swings.

  • Physical signs like acne, hair loss, or changes in voice.

  • Withdrawal from social activities or academic decline.

Current Statistics on Youth Steroid Use in Australia

Recent studies indicate that:

  • Approximately 2.3% of young Australians aged 12 to 17 have used performance and image-enhancing drugs (PIEDs) at some point in their lives .

  • The prevalence of non-medical anabolic steroid use has nearly tripled from 0.3% in 2001 to 0.8% in 2019 .

Factors Leading to Steroid Uptake

Several factors contribute to adolescent steroid use:

  • Media Influence: Exposure to idealized body images on social media platforms can create unrealistic standards.

  • Lack of Awareness: Many teens are unaware of the severe health risks associated with steroid use.

  • Accessibility: Steroids are often easily obtainable through online platforms or social circles.

How #NotEvenOnce® Projects Are Making a Difference

#NotEvenOnce® Projects, delivered by Teen Challenge Tasmania, focus on early intervention through engaging educational seminars. These programs are designed to:

  • Educate students about the dangers of drug use, including steroids.

  • Empower them with the knowledge to make informed decisions.

  • Equip them with strategies to resist peer pressure and societal influences.

By sharing real-life stories and providing evidence-based information, these seminars aim to reduce the likelihood of drug use among young people.

Engaging School Wellbeing and PDHPE Staff

For school wellbeing and PDHPE staff, fostering open communication about steroid use is crucial. Strategies include:

  • Integrating discussions on body image and self-esteem into the curriculum.

  • Providing resources and training to staff on recognizing signs of steroid use.

  • Encouraging students to share their concerns and experiences in a supportive environment.

Starting Meaningful Conversations

Initiating discussions about steroid use can be challenging. Consider the following approaches:

  • Be Informed: Equip yourself with accurate information about the risks and signs of steroid use.

  • Be Supportive: Approach conversations with empathy and without judgment.

  • Be Open: Encourage teens to express their feelings and concerns openly.

For more information on how #NotEvenOnce® Projects are impacting schools across Australia, visit notevenonce.org.au.

Tanya CavanaghNotEvenOnce Projects Australia