Encouraging a teenager or adolescent to avoid drugs or alcohol often requires a strong support network and professional assistance. Since the causes of teenage substance abuse stem from multiple causes and the best treatment approach depends on their individual situation, identifying the right treatment plan takes time. Fortunately, the National Institute on Drug Abuse suggests…
Completing a substance abuse treatment program marks a huge milestone in your overall recovery. However, it doesn’t mean you’re out of the woods. Research estimates that more than 50 percent of addicts relapse during the first four years after treatment, and adolescents are at an especially high risk due to inexperience. Relapse triggers can be…
Does the adolescent brain function differently than that of an adult? Studies show that teens are more likely to take risks and that makes them susceptible to drug abuse and addiction. According to the University of Utah, the gray matter starts to subside around the age of 12, so by 16, the brain is more…
If your child is abusing drugs, you may wonder how prevalent adolescent drug abuse is and what drugs are most often abused by adolescents. It’s been estimated nearly 24 million Americans used illegal drugs within the past month. That’s almost 10 percent of the population of the United States. These studies show that drugs are…
Experiencing a traumatic situation impacts a child’s emotional and mental health. In some cases, a traumatic experience leads to post-traumatic stress disorder and contributes to substance abuse. Psych Central reports that roughly 49 percent of women and 12 percent of men who abuse drugs report sexual abuse, including child sexual abuse. Furthermore, roughly 24 percent…
Girls and boys have very different needs when it comes to substance abuse treatment. Therapies that may work for a girl may not be optimum for a boy and vice versa. Parents and guardians who understand that drug addiction is different for girls and boys can play a greater role in an adolescent’s recovery. Experienced…
Helping a loved one recover from drugs or alcohol requires appropriate treatment options. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, effective treatment programs strive to address multiple needs in an appropriate manner. Holistic treatments for adolescents address the underlying causes of addiction and take appropriate measures to provide the skills and tools your loved…
By understanding the driving forces behind substance abuse, a therapist can determine the optimum course of treatment.
The truth is that abusing drugs during adolescence can have a serious and long-lasting impact on how your teen’s brain develops.
Adolescents may not fully realize the long-term consequences of their actions. Skipping school may seem like a fun idea at the time, but it can cause problem