Alcohol interferes with a person's perception of reality and ability to make good decisions. This can be particularly hazardous for kids and teens who have less problem-solving and decision-making experience. Times of transition, such as the onset of puberty or a parents' divorce, can lead kids to alcohol use. Kids who have problems with self-control or low self- esteem are more likely to abuse alcohol.

Teens tend to try new things and take risks, so they may take drugs because it seems exciting. Teens who feel that they are not connected to or valued by their parents are at greater risk. Teens with poor self- esteem or emotional or mental health problems, such as depression, also are at increased risk.

Teen smoking might begin innocently, but it can become a long-term problem. In 2010 it was found that nearly 60 percent of new smokers were under the age of 18 when they first smoked a cigarette. Among smokers under age 18, more than 6 million will likely die prematurely from a smoking-related disease.

Eating disorders in children and teens cause serious changes in eating habits that can lead to major, even life threatening health problems. The three main types of eating disorders are:  Anorexia, a condition in which a child refuses to eat adequate calories out of an intense and irrational fear of becoming fat  Bulimia, a condition in which a child grossly overeats (binging) and then purges the food by vomiting or using laxatives to prevent weight gain