Generally, when we think of people struggling with substance use we think of adults. It’s important to remember that this isn’t always the case. Rather, teen drug abuse is a growing problem that has far-reaching effects. Moreover, it’s not something that happens to “those other teens,” but instead occurs right here, even in the best neighborhoods. What do you need to know about this face of drug abuse today? Do you need to know about a teen drug rehab program? Call us today at 866.262.0531.
Two Years: The Time it Takes a Teen to Graduate from Opioid Painkillers to Heroin
A social effect of the mounting opioid drug problem is the growing heroin epidemic. Opioids, which serve as gateway drugs, include OxyContin and Vicodin. The overwhelming majority of addicted teens explain that they started taking opioids about two years before they switched to heroin. Some continue to use both drugs simultaneously.
8th Grade: 28% of Teens Have Had Alcohol
Society isn’t immune to the fallout of America’s teen drug abuse. Experts suggest that alcohol plays a significant role in the deaths of teens and young adults ranging in age from 15 to 24. The leading causes of death for this demographic include alcohol-fueled accidents, murders, and suicides.
62.8%: High School Seniors Who Lack Information to Combat Teen Drug Abuse
Physical effects of abusing drugs sometimes come in through the backdoor. In this case, it may simply be a lack of information, understanding, or belief in scientific research. Cases in point are the 63% of high school seniors who believe that e-cigarettes contain only flavoring.
A Lifetime: Mental Effects of Early Onset Drug Use
Scientists understand an addiction to be a chronic brain disorder with a high relapse potential. The earlier the cycle of substance use begins in life, the more likely it is that individuals will relapse. Currently, addiction programs work hard to help teens overcome substance use and prevent future relapses with holistic therapy and similar modalities.
50%: High School Seniors Who Believe One-time Stimulant Abuse is Okay
There’s also a spiritual effect of drug abuse in the teen years. As opposed to their elders, who identify with a black and white mentality when it comes to right and wrong, teens blur the lines. Half of them believe it’s okay to dabble with illicit drugs like cocaine once or twice. As a result, there’s a distinct breakdown of communication between generations, which family therapy seeks to address at the rehab level.
Addiction Treatment For Teens
This is a specialized form of therapy designed to help teens struggling with substance use and addiction. It may involve medical care, behavioral therapies, family counseling, and other forms of support. The goal of addiction treatment for teens is to help them achieve long-term sobriety and develop healthy coping skills to prevent relapse. Treatment plans may include detoxification, medication management, individual and group counseling, support groups, and aftercare services. Addiction treatment for teens can also involve addressing underlying issues such as mental health disorders or trauma. The ultimate goal of treatment is to provide teens with the tools they need to lead healthy and productive lives.
Addiction treatment for teens is available in a variety of settings, including outpatient treatment, residential treatment, and specialized programs. Depending on each individual’s needs, they may benefit from one or more of these types of treatment. It’s important to select a program that is tailored to the individual’s unique needs, as this will give them the best chance for long-term success.
It’s also important for families to be involved in the treatment process, as teens are more likely to benefit when family support and understanding are present. Addiction affects the entire family, so incorporating family counseling into treatment can help repair relationships and rebuild trust.
Get the Help Your Teen Needs At Crestview Recovery
If your family is struggling due to teen drug abuse, don’t panic. It’s not too late to get help. At Crestview Recovery, we want to offer you the best care available. We use a variety of holistic and evidence-based therapies. We designed our programs with your family in mind. As a result, we treat multiple addictions, including:
Crestview Recovery works with individuals struggling with all types of drug addictions. Programs include intensive outpatient access, aftercare, and partial hospitalization. Don’t give a substance the power to control your life. Call 866.262.0531 today for real help with getting on the road to recovery.
Since 2016, Dr. Merle Williamson, a graduate of Oregon Health Sciences University, has been the Medical Director at Crestview Recovery, bringing a rich background in addiction medicine from his time at Hazelden Treatment Center. He oversees outpatient drug and alcohol treatments, providing medical care, setting policies, detox protocols, and quality assurance measures. Before specializing in addiction medicine, he spent 25 years in anesthesiology, serving as Chair of Hospital Pharmacy and Therapeutics Committee and Chief of Anesthesia at Kaiser Permanente. This experience gives him a unique perspective on treating prescription drug addiction.
