Are teenagers putting their lives in risk?

A new report from the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health indicates that the use of steroids among teenagers is growing every year.

According to CAMH, steroid use among teenagers had increased from 0.6 to 1.2 per cent between 2004 to 2011 in Ontario.

Clinical Journal of Sport Medicine indicates that this percentage is currently at 2.8 per cent.

Dan Labreche, a fitness coach and distributor of herbal fitness supplement products, said he is trying to promote a healthy lifestyle in Windsor.

“Everyone has their own reasons for taking it [steroids]. Sometimes for competitive edge in sports, insecurities and obviously a bodybuilding show,” said Labreche. “Too many guys are selling these steroids to get money but kids have no idea what they are doing.”

The report also mentions steroids make people feel energetic and powerful, but they are also known to increase irritability, anxiety, aggression, mood swings, manic symptoms and paranoia, particularly when taken in high doses.

Labreche also said that diets are responsible for better results in the body.

Harsimran Singh, a professional bodybuilder and fitness coach in Vancouver, said he does not recommend steroids.

“The normal amount of testosterone in a human’s body is 300 to 800 decilitres,” said Singh. “When a person takes testosterone from an external source, it can decrease the production of natural testosterone which is a worse stage for a man.”

He said steroids increase the level of testosterone in the body which can results in growth of hair, muscle and an increased sex drive. Use of steroids in early age will stop natural testosterone that damages the long-term growth of the body.

According to CAMH, acne, cysts, oily hair and skin, and thinning scalp hair in both sexes are the common symptoms of steroid use. Steroid-related heart failure has occurred in athletes younger than 30.

Anyone can find treatment of steroids addiction at Camh.ca or can call at 1 (800) 668-6868.