Welcome to the Teen Help Glossary
We have a full listing of terms and definitions that will aid you in your understanding of problems of teens.
Types of definitions include: drug types, treatment options, various disorders, street names of drugs, slang terms, and other terms related to teen issues.
100: A slang term for a 100 size cigarette
12 Step Program: This is exactly what it says. A 12 step program for use with any disease. addiction, compulsion, etc. It was primarily adapted for alcoholics but has now been used with any addiction. The 12 Step Program is basically the same around the world.
1UP’s: A slang term for psychedelic mushrooms.
2-4: Slang for a twenty four pack of beer
256: A slang term for cocaine spelling “blo” on a telephone keypad.
30s: A slang term for a low quality marijuana.
420: A slang term for Marijuana.
50: Slang term for a regular cigarette.
51 or 51er: A slang term for a marijuana joint rolled with cocaine.
7 up: A slang term for 7 grams (1/4 ounce) of cocaine.
714: Street name for methaqualone
8 ball: A slang term for 3.5 grams (1/8 ounces) of cocaine.
Abstinence: The choice to not have any sexual intercourse or to not have sex of any kind. See related article on Abstinence
Acne: Acne is known as black heads, cysts, pustules, pimples and outbreaks. This is caused by a chronic disorder of the hair follicles. There are many treatments for Acne including antibiotics and/or injections. See related article on Acne
Acute Care: Any care received on an inpatient basis. Generally this would be for the short term treatment of a specific illness.
ADD: Attention Deficit Disorder. This may also be called ADHD or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. The characteristics of this disorder are behavior problems, learning disorders as well as hyperactivity, lack of maintaining focus and being impulsive. See related article on ADD
AIDSa: A serious and sometimes fatal disease of the immune system. Aids is transmitted through blood, sexual contact and contaminated needles.
Alcohol Abuse: Any individual who consumes alcohol without regard to health problems or relationship problems. See related article on Teen Alcohol Abuse
Amphetamines: Typically thought of as an illegal substance known as “uppers” or stimulants, amphetamines are often given to children to treat ADHD or prescribed by a doctor for weight loss.
Anesthesia: Used for the prevention of pain. This can be local or general. Local anesthesia is used to prevent pain in a specific area of the body. General anesthesia is used to put one to sleep, generally for an operation.
Anorexia: An unnatural loss of appetite that causes severe weight loss. See related article on Anorexia
Anti-depressants: A set of medications used in the management, prevention and treatment of clinical depression. Zoloft, Paxil, Cymbalta, Prozac, Imiprimine, Luvox, Remeron, Effexor, Elavil, Wellbutrin, Celexa, Lexapro are generally the most common. Some of these are known to be SSRI’s and impact the way the brain regulates Serotonin. See related article on Depression Treatment
Antipsychotics: Medications for the treatment and prevention of psychosis. Some of these medications include, but are not limited to, clozapine, olanzapine, risperidone and quetiapine. These medications block dopamine which is thought to play a role in schizophrenia.
Anus: The end of the digestive tract where solid waste is expelled.
Anxiety: This is generally a feeling of restlessness, fear and apprehension. See related article on Teen Anxiety
Anxiolytics: A set of medications used in the treatment or prevention of anxiety. These include, but are not limited to, Valium, Xanax, Ativan, Serax, Librium, Klonopin, Halcion and Dalmane.
Arson: A crime of intentionally burning or attempting to burn property. See related article on Firesetting
Asperger’s Syndrome: A brain dysfunction related to Autism, however it is not a form of Autism. These individuals are generally of high intelligence, however, lack appropriate social and communication skills.
Autism: A brain function disorder that appears at a young age, typically by 3 years old, and continues through adulthood causing problems with communication, social interaction, and behavior. See related article on Teen Autism
Behavior Contracts: Contracts between parents and teens that specify rules, acceptable behavior, and consequences that are signed by both the parents and the teen. See related article on Behavior Contracts
Bi-Polar Disorder: Sometimes referred to as Cyclothymia. A mood disorder in which patients experience extreme highs and lows known as manias. These manias may be rapid cycling or slow cycling.
Birth Control: Methods employed by couples desiring to have sexual intercourse while limiting the potential of pregnancy. Such methods include: The Pill, IUD’s, abstinence, rhythm method, condoms, spermicides, and Norplant. Please consult your physician. See related article on Teen Birth Control
Boarding School: An educational institution where students reside, eat and are educated. See related article on Boarding School Options
Brown: A slang term for Heroin.
Bruises: Bruises are caused by damage to the small blood vessels or capillaries allowing them to leak into the tissue in the surrounding skin. There is generally a discoloration of the skin at the site of the bruise.
Bulimia: An Eating Disorder in which binging and purging is a recurring cycle. See related article on Bulimia
Bully: A person who verbally or physically intimidates another. See related article on Teen Bullying
Canker Sore: Open sores around the mouth or lips which can be confused with herpes sores. Sometimes referred to as cold sores but are not caused by the herpes virus.
Cannabis Abuse: Any use of the illicit drug. See also Marijuana Abuse.
Cannabis Dependence: A Cannabis abuser who consistently and compulsively seeks out the drug needing more to enjoy the same high. Some of the symptoms are fatigue, loss of appetite and withdraw symptoms if the user has stopped using for a while.
Car Accident: An unintentional motor vehicle event where damage is done to one or more vehicles. See related article on Car Accidents
Cellulite: A fatty tissue that causes uneven skin around the buttocks and thigh area. See related article on Teen Cellulite
Chlamydia: A Sexually Transmitted Disease. This STD is extremely dangerous if left untreated. The symptoms may be as little as painful or burning urination or unusual discharge. It is easily treated with antibiotics. If left untreated it can cause scarring of the fallopian tubes, infertility as well as pelvic pain.
Cocaine: A highly addictive white powder manufactured from the Coca plant. This drug produces feelings of pleasure. Cocaine is generally found in the form of a white crystalline powder used for snorting, smoking or injecting. Crack cocaine has been processed with ammonia or baking soda and is for smoking. Cocaine is also known as C, Charlie, Coke, Snow, Flake and Stardust.
Codeine: A form of opiates.
Conduct Disorder: This disorder is a repetitive and persistent pattern of violating social standards, values and the rights of others. This can be child onset or adolescent onset and can be characterized in mild, moderate or severe intensity.
Crabs: Pubic Lice. Also see STD’s.
Culture Shock: The feeling of being removed from a familiar environment to a completely foreign culture. These feeling may include anxiety or confusion.
Cutting: A form of self-mutilation where one cuts their body. See related article on Teen Cutting.
Cyclothymia: A mild mood disorder that can develop into bipolar disorder. Symptoms are repetitive periods of depression followed by normal or elevated moods.
Depressants: Please see Downers. These are medications that are used in the treatment or prevention of anxiety and are often used to aid in sleeping.
Depression: A disruption/downturn of mood to the point of interference in activities of daily living. See also Major Depression, Bi-polar Disorder, and Dysthymic Disorder. See related article on Teen Depression Causes
Detox: A place where a person can go to detoxify their body of drugs or alcohol, typically a hospital or treatment center.
Detoxification: The removal of toxins or poisonous substances (typically drugs or alcohol) of a person’s body.
Dope: A slang term for marijuana.
Downers: Downers are also known as barbiturates, tranquilizers, alcohol, and depressants. Some medications are used to diminish certain bodily functions. These drugs are very addictive and dangerous.
Drug Rehabilitation: This is a catchall phrase for the treatment of an individual who is addicted to a drug. The end result is to provide the type of services necessary to allow the individual to be clean and sober and no longer addicted to the drug.
DXM: Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide is found in over the counter cold remedies and cough syrups. In higher quantities it can be used as a psychedelic drug. Usually there is no physical addiction, however, there is a possibility of psychological addiction.
Eating Disorder: A mental illness in which eating habits cause physical harm. See Anorexia and Bulimia. See related article on Eating Disorders
Ecstasy: A synthetic drug that acts as a stimulant as well as a hallucinogen. This drug works on serotonin, dopamine and noradrenaline by causing a flood of these chemicals to the brain. Ecstasy is known to cause brain damage in as little as one dose.
Eczema: A skin disorder causing inflammation, itching, redness, scaling or a noncontagious breakout of lesions. In sever cases there may be a discharge from the lesions. This disorder is very sensitive to sunlight and therefore caution should be taken when going outdoors.
Educational Consultant: A professional who works with children and families to evaluate the most appropriate educational setting or placement for the child.
Epilepsy: A seizure disorder affecting the brain. There are recurring seizures that may result in a loss of consciousness or unnatural movements of the body. Epilepsy may be controlled by medication.
Exercise: Any physical activity started with the purpose of improving one’s fitness or overall health. See related article on Teen Exercise
Extracurricular Activities: Activities such as sports or clubs that students participate in but are not part of the regular classroom activities. See related articles on Sports Participation
Family Therapy: A therapy session that includes more than one member of the same nuclear family. See related article on Choosing a Therapist
Fellatio: When oral sex is performed on a male also known as a blow job. (See Oral Sex)
Female Condom: A condom that fits inside the vagina.
Finances: The management of money to pay expenses and adding to savings. See related article Teen Finance
Flaccid: The relaxed state of a penis.
Flashbacks: The re-experiencing, after discontinuing use, of the effects of a hallucinogen such as LSD.
Foreskin: The loose skin covering the end of a penis in uncircumcised males.
French Kissing: An open mouth kiss where tongues touch or is put in the other person’s mouth.
Frottage: Rubbing two bodies together for sexual pleasure also known as dry-humping.
Gambling: Wagering or betting money on a sport, game, or event. See related article on Teen Gambling
Ganja: A slang term for Marijuana.
Gear: A slang term for Heroin.
Gender Identity Disorder: A strong or persistent discomfort with one’s sex. A strong and persistent desire to become the other sex. See related article on Gender Identity
Genital Warts: An STD caused by the HPV Virus. Lesions may appear in the genital area which may be raised and bumpy or flat and very difficult to see. Generally these will be witnessed within three months of infection. In women it is believed to be the leading cause of cervical cancer. Treatment must be performed by a licensed medical professional, please do not use over the counter remedies.
Genitals: Male or female sexual organs which include the penis, scrotum, vulva, and vagina.
GHB: Gamma Hydroxybutyric Acid. A modern rave drug used to get high. This drug is very dangerous as it is a mixture of degreasing solvent and drain cleaner. GHB is also known as the following: G, Liquid E, Fantasy, Georgia Home Boy, Grievous Bodily Harm, Liquid X, Scoop, Water, Everclear, Great Hormones at Bedtime, GBH, Soap, Easy Lay, Salty Water, G-Riffick, Cherry Meth, Organic Quaalude and Jib.
Goal: A specific objective that a person sets to be done by a specific period of time. See related article Goal Setting
Gonorrhea: A Sexually Transmitted Disease also known as the Clap. Men may have a thick discharge from their penis as well as painful urination. Women may have minimal symptoms such as lower abdominal pain, unusual discharge or a urinary tract infection. These symptoms are very serious and should be referred to a licensed physician immediately as more serious diseases can follow.
Grass: A slang term for Marijuana.
Group Therapy: A therapy session including multiple persons usually involving taking a risk(sharing) and then receiving feedback. These sessions are run by a mental health professional, usually a therapist.
H: A slang term for Heroin.
Halfway House: This is a step down environment from an inpatient setting. Generally used for drug and alcohol recovery this setting may also be used for sex offenders. Addicts and offenders are able to move about more freely while still being in a therapeutic milieu.
Hash: A slang term for Marijuana.
Herb: A slang term for Marijuana.
Heroin: A potent, highly addictive drug derived from Opium. This drug can be smoked, injected or snorted through the nose. It interferes with the pain receptors in the brain. Also known as: smack, brown, horse, gear, H, junk, jack, skag and steps. Please see opiates.
Herpes: An STD that is very contagious. Evidenced by fluid filled blisters in the genital area which are painful. This STD is incurable, however, is becoming more manageable with medication. The outbreaks become more manageable, however, even during the period that there are no visible blisters, you are still contagious.
High School: The level of education typically grades 9th through 12th.
HIV: Human Immunodeficiency Virus. The virus that causes AIDS.
Homesickness: The overwhelming desire to be home. Generally experienced by travelers or military personnel.
Horse: A slang term for Heroin.
Huffing: When inhalants are inhaled for reasons other than the purpose of the inhalant. See related article on Huffing
Hypochondriasis: A general preoccupation or fear of having a disease.
ICU: The Intensive Care Unit of a hospital.
IEP: Individualized Education Plan. A plan of action developed by a Multi-Disciplinary Team outlining specialized services for a student. See related article on IEP
Impotence: The inability for a male to have an erection.
Incubation Period: The time period between the time a person contracts a STD until they get sick.
Infertility: The inability of a woman to conceive, usually after trying to conceive for more than a year.
Inhalants: Inhalants are generally household products that are huffed or sniffed by children and adolescents in order to get high called “huffing”. Some inhalants include, but are not limited to, white out, spray paint, cleaning fluids, model glue, paint thinner, hair spray, gasoline and nail polish remover. The more advanced huffers will use Nitrous Oxide. See related article on Inhalants
Injecting Drugs: When drugs are put into the body by using a needle or syringe.
Inpatient Treatment: Treatment a patient receives while residing in a hospital or treatment center. (See Residential Treatment)
Intercourse: See Sexual Intercourse
Internet: An enormous collection of computer networks that makes up the World Wide Web. See related article Online Safety
Jack: A slang term for Heroin.
Jelly Bracelets: Also known as “sex bracelets” are plastic or gel bracelets that are in different colors that represent different sexual acts one is willing to perform. See related article on Jelly Bracelets
Jock Itch: This is a fungal infection of the skin in the groin area. Also known as tinea cruris or ringworm. Generally appears in men in warm, humid climates.
Joint: A marijuana cigarette.
Junk: A slang term for Heroin.
Keratin: It is a strong non-soluble fibrous protein that makes up hair, nails, and skin. See related article on Hair Care
Ketamine: A dissociative anesthetic similar to PCP. Used mainly in veterinary medicine due to it’s causing “out of body” experiences in humans. Street names include: Special K, K, Ket, Smack K, Kit-Kat, and others.
Kleptomania: The overwhelming and persistent desire to steal even though it is not for monetary gain.
LCSW: Licensed Clinical Social Worker. This is an individual who has a MSW degree plus at least two years of supervised internship. Licensing in some states requires an exam in order to call oneself an LCSW.
Learning Disorder: The academic level is well below the age appropriate level. Clearly interfering with self esteem and a variety of other issues. Learning Disorders may be found in math, reading and writing. See related article on Learning Disabilities
LSD: Lysergic Acid Diethylamide is the most common hallucinogen and a powerful mood altering drug. This drug comes in the form of liquid, tablets and capsules. Known as acid it is colorless and odorless with a slightly bitter taste. The high LSD produces is called a trip. Any adverse reactions are called a bad trip. LSD is trapped in the fatty tissues of the body and under certain circumstances can produce flashbacks. LSD is also known as Acid, Trips, Tabs, Blotters, Microdots and Dots.
Lust: A strong sexual desire.
Marijuana: A drug made from the Cannabis plant. The main ingredient is THC. This drug is also known as pot, weed, reefer, Mary Jane, dope, grass, ganja, hash and herb.
Mary Jane: Please see Marijuana.
Menstruation: The monthly flow of blood shedding the uterine lining when pregnancy does not occur. Also known as one’s Period. See related article on Teen Menstruation
Methamphetamine: A crystalline hydrochloride form of amphetamine used as a central nervous system stimulant.
Methamphetamine Abuse: Any usage of methamphetamine or amphetamine beyond what is prescribed by a physician. This is not to say that a physician’s order cannot be abused.
Methamphetamine Dependency: The constant need to increase the amount of methamphetamine usage to get the same results.
Methaqualone: A sedative drug similar in effect to barbiturates. Also known as Quaaludes.
Mood Stabilizer: Mood Stabilizers are most often used in the treatment of Bi-Polar Disorder. Lithium and Depakote are the most commonly used in this treatment.
Morning After Pill: This is known as the Emergency Contraception Pill. It contains high doses of hormones found in oral contraceptive pills. See related article on Morning After Pill
Morphine: Please see opiates.
MSW: Master of Social Work.
Mushrooms: Also known as psychedelic mushrooms, sacred mushrooms and magic mushrooms, which when chewed can cause hallucinations.
Nail Fungus: Also known as Onychomycosis which is a fungal infection of the nails.
Narcissism: Also known as Narcissistic Personality Disorder. These individuals have a pattern of grandiosity and need for admiration. They lack empathy. These individuals are generally full of themselves and exaggerate their self importance. See related article on Narcissistic Personality Disorder
Narcolepsy: Frequent, brief and uncontrollable periods of sleep.
Nicotine: The addictive drug in tobacco. See related article on Teen Smoking
Obesity: The state of being overweight by 20 – 30 percent of the ideal body weight. See related article on Teen Obesity
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: Obsessions: There are persistent thoughts, impulses or images that are recurring. Compulsions: This includes the repetitive behaviors, such as locking doors and windows, cleaning, washing hands, counting, etc. Both of which cause the individual stress and can turn into all encompassing activities leaving little time for anything else. See related article on Personality Disorders
Opiates: Opiates are considered any medication or drug derived from the Opium Poppy. These would include Morphine, Codeine, and Heroin. These substances are used in pain management and are highly addictive. Heroin is the most addictive and dangerous, as it is sold on the street in different forms. Many, many deaths have occurred due to Heroin usage, overdosage, etc. Heroin users have seen an increase in infections such as Hepatitis and HIV.
Oppositional Defiant Disorder: Hostile, negative and defiant behaviors. This is accompanied by a willful and wanton disregard for social standards and values. These behaviors can only be considered ODD if the behaviors are more frequent than another individual of comparable age and developmental level.
Oral Sex: A sexual act where a person’s mouth is used to stimulate another’s genitals. See related article on Oral Sex
Oxycontin: Oxycontin and Oxycodone are very powerful pain relievers. This pain reliever offers a heroin like high. it is similar to codeine, however much more powerful and addictive.
PCP: Phencyclidine Hydrochloride for short. Also knows as Angel Dust, Super Weed, Embalming Fluid, Ozone, Rocket Fuel, Love Boat and Hog. A very powerful dissociative hallucinogen that causes “out of body” experiences.
Peer Pressure: Circumstances where a group of individuals influence an individual or group of individuals.
Penis: The male organ used for reproduction and urination. See related article Teen Boys’ Development
Permanent Hair Removal: When hair is removed from the body permanently. See related article Hair Removal
Personality Disorder: A deeply ingrained non psychotic mental disorder characterized by inflexible maladaptive thinking about oneself and their environment. These individuals tend to use non acceptable methods to gain self satisfaction, generally at the expense of others. See related article on Personality Disorders
Physical Therapy: Services provided by a medical professional to recondition and restore muscle strength and movement.
Plastic Surgery: Plastic Surgery is an operation or series of operations used to improve or restore the appearance of certain body structures.
PMA: A very potent and toxic amphetamine usually sold as Ecstasy. Deaths have been attributed to the use PMA as people have overdosed not knowing what they were using.
Pot: Slang term for Marijuana.
Pregnancy: The period of time and condition when a woman has a growing fetus in her uterus. This would include teens, young adults and mature adults. See related article on Teen Pregnancy
Prevention: Steps taken to prevent events or actions.
Private School: Any school who is not controlled or funded by the Government or any Governmental Agency. These schools retain the right to select their students. These schools are generally funded by charging tuition. Most States have a licensing or registration necessary for operation.
Psychedelic: Hallucinogenic, mind-altering or psychoactive, a term typically used when referring to LSD, Mescaline, Mushrooms.
Psychiatrist: A licensed medical doctor (MD or DO) who specializes in the treatment and diagnosis of mental disorders.
Psychologist: A licensed mental health professional (Ph.D. or Psy.D) who specializes in the treatment and/or diagnosis of mental disorders.
Psychostimulants: This is the general term for amphetamines, methamphetamines and other “speed” type drugs.
Puberty: The process in which a child’s body turns into an adult and sexual reproduction becomes possible. See related article on Puberty
Quaaludes: also known as Methaqualone. A sedative drug that is addictive.
Rape: A crime where a person is forced or manipulated into performing a sexual act.
Rapid Detox: This is exactly what it sounds like. Rapid Detoxification is an accelerated detox process for opiates and some prescription pain medications. This is generally done in a hospital and conducted under general anesthesia. Medications are given to the patient to accelerate the physical reactions of the rapid withdraw process.
Reactive Attachment Disorder: A longstanding failure to respond in a developmentally appropriate fashion as a result of the failure of the primary caregiver remaining the same.
Reefer: A slang term for Marijuana.
Residential Treatment Facility: A facility usually licensed by The Department of Health and Human Services that provides inpatient treatment options. Adolescents and children also have a built in academic program as well as regular counseling sessions. These facilities are for individuals who have drug and alcohol issues, mental health issues, and behavioral issues. A multidisciplinary team is assigned and a treatment plan is developed. See related article on Choosing a Troubled Teen Program
Ritalin: Ritalin is a central nervous system stimulant used primarily in the treatment of ADD. The chemical name is methylphenidate hydrochloride. This medication has also bee prescribed for the treatment of Narcolepsy. See related article on ADD / ADHD Treatment
Rohypnol: Flunitrazepam, commonly known as roofies. Most commonly known as a date rape drug. One tablet of this drug causes up to 8 hours of sedative effects, amnesia, muscle relaxation as well as slowed psychomotor performance. This drug is illegal in the United States. It is prescribed outside the U.S. primarily for sleep disorders.
RU-486: This medication is used for chemical abortion of early pregnancies.
Seasonal Affective Disorder: This is a depression that is associated with a particular time of year.
Self Esteem: How a person views themselves on an emotional level. See related article on Teen Self-Esteem
Self-Mutilation: The deliberate act of self injury without the intention of death. Generally associated with mental illnesses. The self injury may be to release endorphins or as punishment to oneself. This includes cutting, self piercing, etc. See related article on Teen Self-Mutilation
Sexual Addiction: An addiction to sexual intercourse or masterbation, typically a person has an unusually intense sexual desire.
Sexual Intercourse: When a penis penetrates an orifice (mouth, vagina, anus) of another person. See related article Discussing the Birds and the Bees
Shyness: A lack of self confidence in social settings. A fear of being embarrassed or being rejected by others.
Skag: A slang term for Heroin.
Smack: A slang term for Heroin.
Social Phobia: Social Phobia is also known as Social Anxiety Disorder. Persons with this disorder feel as thought they are being watched, judged and looked upon with negativity. This happens anytime the individual is in a social setting or situation.
Special K: Also known as Ketamine Hydrocholride. Generally used as a animal tranquilizer during surgery. Special K is a hallucinogen frequently mixed with heroin, tobacco, cocaine and ecstasy. Special K is also knows as Cat Valium, Green, Jet, K, Super C, Honey Oil and Super Acid.
STD’s: Sexually Transmitted Diseases. These are a group of diseases transmitted during sexual activity. Genital Warts, Herpes, Gonorrhea, Crabs, Syphilis, Chlamydia. See related article Sexually Transmitted Diseases
Steps: A slang term for Heroin.
Steroids: Steroids come in two forms; Anabolic and Androgenic. Anabolic Steroids are man made substances related to male sex hormones. Anabolic Steroids are used in the building of muscle, however, there are certain dangers associated with the use of Steroids. These dangers include, but are not limited to, liver problems, reproductive problems and aggression. Steroids have been known to cause manic type mood swings that are associated with violence.
Stress: A physiological or psychological response to external stimuli. See related article on Teen Stress
Stretch Marks: Stretch marks are also known as Striae Atrophica. These are tiny bands of skin that are shiny or discolored. These are caused by stretching or loosening of the elastic tissues.
Success: When a person reaches his or her goals or accomplishes an intended purpose. A state of prosperity.
Suicide: The act of taking one’s own life. See related article on Teen Suicide
Syphilis: An STD which is characterized by a painless open soar on the penis or in or around the vagina. If left untreated it will become worse and can even affect the heart and central nervous system.
The Clap: A slang term for Gonorrhea.
Therapy: Therapy is treatment for a disease or disorder. Generally thought of as treatment for drug or alcohol related issues it is also for the treatment of mental disease or disorder. There are different forms of therapy, individual, family and group are the most common. See related article Does Your Teen Need Help
Treatment: A form of intervention that is established with a mental health professional to alleviate symptoms and provide support over a period of time. This can be done on an outpatient or inpatient basis.
Treatment Center: Any center or inpatient facility, licensed by the State Agency in charge, for the treatment of drugs and alcohol and/or mental illness. This type of center can provide day treatment, inpatient, and outpatient services. See also Residential Treatment Center
Trichotillomania: This is a recurrent pulling out of one’s hair in order to release tension.
Uppers: Also known as stimulants. These drugs impact the nervous system and produce feelings of alertness and euphoria. Some uppers would include cocaine, caffeine, amphetamines and even nicotine.
Urethra: The tube or canal that carries urine outside of the body from the bladder.
Uterus: The female reproductive organ (See Womb) which is pear-shaped, hollow, where the egg and sperm meet, the baby grows during pregnancy. It is where menstrual blood comes from.(See Menstruation) See related article Teen Girls’ Development
Vagina: The female organ used for sexual intercourse. The vagina is also the birth canal. This is also the tube which joins the uterus to the outside of the body. See related article Teen Girls’ Development
Vaginal Sex: When a penis penetrates the vagina.
Violence: Deliberate actions to cause harm/death to persons or animals. This would also include property damage or destruction. See related article on Teen Violence
Virgin: A person who has never had sexual intercourse. For males there is no physical signs, for a female the hymen is broken.
Weed: A slang term for Marijuana.
Weight Loss: A decrease in body weight from dieting, exercising or illness. See related article on Teen Nutrition
Wet Dreams: When a male has a dream of a sexual nature, while sleeping, that produces an ejaculation.
Whitehead: An acne lesion that looks like a white bump.
Wilderness Program: A therapeutic experiential program conducted in the outdoors, usually in the wilderness or some remote setting away from distractions. See related article Choosing a Troubled Teen Program
Womb: A hollow pear-shaped female reproduction organ (See Uterus) See related article Teen Girls’ Development
Xanax: Generic name is Alprazolam and is a prescribed anti-anxiety medication. See related article on Teen Anxiety
Yeast Infection: A vaginal infection where there is a higher amount of yeast present which can be caused by taking antibiotics or birth control pills for a long time, having a lot of sugar in the diet, or having an allergy to yeast.
Youth: Children between the ages of 12 to 17.
Youth Detoxification: An environment that is safe and protected for youth ages 13 to 17 to withdraw from harmful substances such as drugs or alcohol. See related article on Teen Drug Abuse Treatment
Youth Program: A special opportunity created for children, adolescents and young adults. These can be therapy based or behavior based. Youth Programs may include Wilderness Programs, Residential Treatment Centers and Specialty Boarding Schools. Great care and research should be done prior to choosing a Youth Program. See related article on Choosing a Troubled Teen Program
Zoloft: A name brand of an anti-depressant made of sertraline hydrochloride. See related article on Teen Depression Treatment
Zygote: The pre-embryo state when a sperm fertilizes an egg.