Specialized Approaches to Adolescent Addiction

A teen addicted to drugs must be removed from the temptations of their home and drug-using friends and put into an environment that is safe and conducive to recovery. Inpatient drug rehab programs are available and can range from 30 days to several months. In general, more extended stays are associated with better outcomes. Learn the best info about Adolescent Addiction.

If a teen shows signs of addiction, you should immediately talk to their family doctor. They can help you decide what course of action to take and whether or not your teen has a severe problem that warrants treatment. In many cases, even if the teen-only experiments with drugs, an underlying mental health issue may contribute to their drug use. In this case, a therapist can assist with identifying and treating these underlying issues.

Some teen drug treatment programs will offer a range of different therapies. These include individual therapy, group therapy, wilderness and adventure therapy, animal-assisted therapy, and family therapy. These therapies can all provide the tools a teen in recovery will need to stay drug-free, including teaching them healthy coping skills and strategies to deal with cravings. They will also learn to set boundaries and say no and be given the support they need to overcome their drug use.

Teens will likely undergo drug withdrawal during the first week or two of treatment, which can be unpleasant and require medical attention. A good drug rehabilitation program will be prepared for this and have all the resources necessary to get the addict through detox safely. Medications might be prescribed to control drug withdrawal symptoms, such as anxiety, depression, insomnia, nausea, and tremors. After this, a good drug rehab program will focus on providing education, counseling, and support for the addict. They will be screened for co-occurring mental illnesses and may be encouraged to follow a twelve-step recovery program.

The teen will likely continue to attend therapy for as long as they need, depending on their progress and level of drug abuse. They will usually attend one-on-one and group therapy sessions and may participate in other therapy designed specifically for teens, such as motivational interviewing or cognitive behavioral therapy.

Public and private facilities can offer drug treatment to a teen, and most of these will accept insurance or other forms of payment to cover costs. Some rehab programs will be cheaper than others, and some offer scholarships based on need. If the teen does not have insurance, they can try looking for grants or loans. A therapist can advise on the best options for their budget and situation. Lastly, it is essential to remember that drug addiction is a chronic condition. Cravings and triggers will pop up throughout the years, and they will need to work on coping and recovery techniques continually. Having the proper support network can make all the difference for a teen in recovery.

Read Also: What Is THC X?