Electronic Health Reporter

While overall rates of teen drug use are down, heavy drug addiction is on the rise in American youth. It’s becoming an epidemic as more of our youth dabble in the use of opioids and hard liquor. What often begins as recreational use turns into substance abuse that is beyond their control.

The unfortunate truth is drugs and alcohol are readily available to teens. In fact, they can find access to many dangerous and addictive substances in their own homes. If they don’t get at home, there are other sources. Peers and individuals who make a business out of selling illegal substances make it all too easy to fuel addiction. Parents need to explore adolescent rehab options to get them the help they need. Freedom from addiction is possible for teens, but it’s going to take time and effort. Most importantly of all, it means sticking with a program until a teen is successful in overcoming substance abuse.

Detox is the first stage of treatment for addiction

The first step in any treatment program is detox. A teen must be cut off from the source of addiction in a supervised setting. At this time, the body will detox as all traces of drugs are alcohol are eliminated by the body. This is the stage when teens will go through withdrawal. There will be serious cravings that will push teens toward temptation. However, they will not be allowed any access to the source of their addiction while in a rehab facility.

Staff members will be monitoring their health around the clock to make sure they are safe during this challenging time. It’s often considered the most challenging phase of treatment. This is the time when people will do anything to make the discomforts of withdrawal go away. This is why it is vital to make sure teens get professional help. Once they make it through detox, they have options for rehab.

Teens need rehab programs that are tailored to meet their needs

Addiction programs are available on an outpatient basis and inpatient. If teens enter an outpatient program, they will continue to live at home and go to school. They will go to counseling services with a therapist at a schedule that fits the patient. This type of treatment may not be enough for teens who have severe addictions. When they need intensive therapy, inpatient treatment is recommended. When in inpatient therapy, teens will live in a facility for a time period of 21 days or more. They will have individual counseling sessions to help them understand their addiction, their triggers, and strategies they can use to remain sober in the future.

They’ll meet in group sessions as well to see that they are not alone in their struggle. Family counseling is often an important component of treatment as well as family members talk with therapists to learn about their role in a teen’s recovery. During inpatient treatment, medical professionals may prescribe medications to help them during the process. Mood stabilizers, stimulants and opioids are only a few options that can help teens to deal with the challenges of addiction. Once treatment is completed and teens are sent home, outpatient counseling often continues. Support group meetings can help in keeping teens on the right path.

Recovery from substance abuse will take a team effort for teens

The only way that rehab will work for teens is if it is a team effort. Medical professionals, family members, and the teen will need to work together to embrace a future that is clean and sober.