Teenage years can be carefree and one of endless experiences and experiments. Experiments can range from independence to drugs and alcohol. However, repeated experiments and specific external influences can lead to a loss of control. According to experts at various teen drug and alcohol rehab centers, the loss of control occurs when a teenager becomes addicted to the substance of choice. If your teenager is at this crucial juncture, then it is time to think about a comprehensive service from a rehab centers for adolescents.
Recognizing teenager drug and alcohol problems
The critical step is identifying the addiction problem right at the start. Yes, we do understand that it can be quite tricky. Teenagers can keep addiction problems hidden for a long time, and call them out on their abuse can be tricky. Teenagers can be exceptionally defiant, and this can lead to further family complications down the line. Therefore, the best approach is to leverage professional help to help your teen combat addiction problems.
Here are some of the symptoms of drug or alcohol abuse that can help you to identify the problems right at the start.
- New friends
- Changes in appetite
- Physical appearance deterioration
- Changes in sleeping patterns
- Secretive nature and aloofness
- Stealing and borrowing money
- Drug-related items in the room
- Drop-in grades and concentration during study/school activities
Dealing with teens can be a challenge, according to experts, and this is because they tend to deny the harmful effects of drugs on the development of the brain and other motor functions. And this is precisely why you are better off with mental health experts and counselors for proper education and awareness regarding the effects of drug usage and abuse.
Starting the process
If you are worried about where to start the deaddiction process, then we would like to point out that the family pediatrician can help when it comes to alcohol and drug abuse. He/she will know professionals and counselors and will recommend one for an appointment. Once the evaluation assessment starts, they will determine the extent of the therapy required to combat the addiction.
Now, we will have a look at the process of a rehabilitation center.
Intake
The process starts with the intake, where the experts conduct a thorough investigation regarding the medical history, the health problems, drug choice, and the extent of usage and damage to the body. They do this to devise the customized treatment plan according to the specifications.
Detoxification
Depending on the level of addiction, detoxification and related withdrawal symptom can be life-threatening. Addicts are usually susceptible to DTs or Delirium Tremens, which can lead to seizures and heart-related issues. There can be other mental and physical issues, as well. A rehab center will work towards your teen’s betterment through constant monitoring, supervision, medication, and group therapy sessions.
Rehabilitation and integration
The aim of the rehabilitation protocol is ultimately the integration into society. For that, there are individual therapy sessions that allow your teen to correct damaging traits. The experts also teach coping mechanisms that will enable them to keep their triggers and stressors in check to avoid relapses.
There are two main types of rehab programs to choose from, and they are as follows.
The inpatient
At an inpatient service, your teen will remain isolated from the environment that triggers their addiction, and that includes friends and family members. It will allow for a complete focus on the treatment and is extremely crucial for a severe degree of dependence.
The outpatient services
The outpatient service is for the elderly relative to take care of or other significant responsibilities that rule out rehab stay. However, it is appropriate for those for whom the addiction is new and less severe.
Recovery – Aftercare
Therapy sessions will continue after the rehab stint as well. It is all about making sure that the dependency is entirely out of the system. As your teenager learns to be responsible, the aftercare sessions will gradually decrease in number. However, you might have to accommodate for daily therapy sessions even after the rehab stint at the start. There are various community programs as well as group therapy sessions around every city as well. The more your teen appears in such programs, the better it will develop accountability and build trust.
In case you have the budget, you can even go for a luxury drug treatment center, which is a home away from home with all the stringency of a regular rehab. You can even find rehabs based on faith, so there are several choices if you are willing to put in the search effort.
A rehab stint can work wonders for your teenager if he/she has developed an addiction problem. It is the best way towards a brighter and better future.
I’m a 20-something stay-at-home mother and wife. I have an amazing husband, a beautiful daughter, two loving dogs, and a lazy cat. I wouldn’t change my life for anything! I love to read, listen to music, cook and blog!
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