It is shocking to learn that half of all mental health disorders begin displaying symptoms by age 14. That means it is especially important to look for signs and symptoms in adolescents and teens. Both addiction and mental health disorders are chronic and progressive conditions, meaning that symptoms continue to get worse until you receive…
Substance abuse disorders, alcoholism, and addiction don’t discriminate. Although certain factors, such as having a close family member with a history of addiction, can increase your risk of developing a substance abuse disorder, anyone can develop an addiction. Drugs and alcohol are neurotransmitter inhibitors that force your brain to release a powerful and overwhelming rush…
Teens are still maturing, meaning they’re inherently prone to making risky decisions. Not only are teens more likely to cave to peer pressure and experiment with drugs and alcohol, but they’re also more prone to experience mood and behavioral changes during addiction. Because addiction is a chronic condition, it almost always requires treatment. Rehabs can…
Social media use has become increasingly popular, especially among adolescents and teens. 85% of teens ages 13 to 17 use YouTube, 72% use Instagram and another 69% use Snapchat. Not only do 95% of teenagers have a smartphone, but 45% of teens state that they are constantly online. While using the internet or social media…
When teenagers begin using drugs or alcohol, it can be hard on parents and loved ones. It may be difficult to understand why they began using the substance and parents may feel uncomfortable with the idea of sending them into a rehab program. Families should know that teen rehab is different from adult rehab. Even…
Teen drinking is not a new phenomenon — it’s something many teens will encounter during their adolescent years, and something they are likely to try. However, when many young people pick up their first alcoholic beverage in order to taste it, they do not always understand the implications and the dangers of teen drinking. The…
Teen prescription drug abuse is often attractive to teenagers over illicit drugs. Because these drugs are allowed under a doctor’s guidance, many teenagers are lulled into a false sense of security that the drugs are actually safe. However, these medications are offered under a doctor’s direction for a reason. When taken too long or in…
Substance abuse is a problem that impacts the lives of teenagers and their families around the country. There are many signs your teen is using drugs. Teens have access to more diverse addictive substances than ever before. Between underage drinking, illicit drug use, and misusing prescription medications, the discerning teen has many ways to become…
A potent mix of hormonal changes, growing independence, and still-developing brain structures make the teenage years particularly difficult. These difficulties lead to teen alcohol and drug use. Many adults look back on their teen years as a particularly challenging rite of passage, and today’s teens face even more pressures than their parents’ generation. With the…
Once a family has identified that a teen is struggling with substance abuse, the next step is to help this teen by enrolling him or her in adolescent-specific rehab. Attending an adolescent-specific rehab facility can offer many benefits to teenagers who are struggling with substance abuse. Adolescent-specific inpatient treatment programs offer a controlled, structured environment…