Navigation: How to Get a Teenager into Rehab for Substance Use and Addiction, Why Do Teens Misuse Drugs and Alcohol?, Consequences of Teen Drug Abuse, Talking to Your Teen About Drug Use and Drug Rehab, Minimizing the Risk of Teenage Substance Abuse
Because the teen brain is still developing, it is more focused on seeking rewards and taking risks compared to the adult brain. Unfortunately, this means teens are also more susceptible to the adverse effects of substance abuse.
During this time, teenagers are also more prone to pushing for greater freedom, which means they are more likely to explore things like drug and alcohol abuse. It is entirely possible for them to develop a substance addiction because of their increased vulnerability.
Teenage substance abuse refers to the misuse or excessive use of alcohol, drugs, or other substances by adolescents and teenagers. Substance abuse in general is a widespread problem, but adolescents are not exempted from this.
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) reports that in the US, millions of adolescents aged 12 to 17 have used substances, including alcohol and illicit drugs.
It goes without saying that teenagers who experiment with drugs and other substances put their own health and safety at risk. Substance abuse can lead to numerous negative consequences, including health problems, addiction, impaired academic performance, legal issues, and strained relationships with family and friends.
This is a cause for concern among parents. And while it’s not unusual for teens to struggle with drug addiction, they often have unique needs when it comes to treatment.
This is why parents need to learn all about teen treatment: types of treatment available for teenagers and how they work. This can be the first step towards convincing your child to go into a rehab program. Here we will talk about teen substance abuse, the importance of seeking addiction treatment for your child, and how to talk to them about it.
How to Get a Teenager into Rehab for Substance Use and Addiction
Getting a teenager into rehab can be a challenging and sensitive process. It’s crucial to approach the situation with empathy and understanding.
If you suspect that your child is experimenting with or taking drugs, you need to have a plan of action. You can’t let strong emotions affect your judgment. Before talking to your teen, be sure that you are ready for a conversation. Be ready for how they might respond to you bringing up their substance abuse. [1]
It pays to educate yourself about the topic. Learn about addiction, its signs, and the available treatment options. Learn about its effects, how it co-occurs with mental illness, why some teens are more vulnerable, etc.
This knowledge will help you better understand what your teenager is going through and how rehab can help. You can also eliminate any biases you may have that are caused by stigma. By educating yourself on this medical condition, you can approach the situation with clarity.
Once you’re ready, have an open and non-judgmental conversation with your teenager. Do not engage them in conversation when they are under the effects of a certain substance. They need to be sober for this. Pick a time and place where you can talk without any distractions or interruptions.
Express your concern for their well-being and explain why you believe rehab is necessary. Encourage them to share their thoughts and feelings about the situation.
Encourage them to be open and honest about their situation. Remain calm and reassure them that you are coming from a place of concern. Remember to focus on the behavior, not the person. Your teen isn’t necessarily a bad person—but you need to emphasize that drug use is dangerous. [1]
Your goal with this conversation is to convince them to get into rehab. Suggest professional help and offer to assist them throughout the recovery process. However, if they are not ready for this, you may want to consider a professional intervention.
Involve other trusted family members or close friends to offer support and assistance. A united front can be more persuasive to the teenager. If the teenager is resistant to the idea of rehab, staging an intervention may be necessary.
An intervention involves a structured meeting with a trained intervention specialist to help the teenager understand the severity of their situation and the need for treatment. A professional interventionist can organize and moderate the intervention to increase your chances of successfully convincing the teenager to accept treatment.
An intervention will detail how the teen’s actions have affected the people around them. The interventionist will guide this conversation so it doesn’t turn into a confrontation and make the teenager feel like everyone is ganging up on them.
At the end of the intervention, they will be presented with a treatment option that they need to accept on the spot. The intervention will also detail certain consequences that will be enforced should they refuse to get help.
Research treatment centers near you and find out what kind of programs they offer. Some specialize in treating alcohol use disorder (AUD) while others treat all kinds of substance use disorders (SUDs) like opioid use disorder (OUD). Treatment centers also provide mental health treatment on top of addiction treatment because mental illnesses tend to co-occur with SUDs.
Once they accept the treatment option, help them prepare for rehab. Stay involved in their recovery process. Attend family therapy sessions, visit when allowed, and continue to offer emotional support. Addiction treatment is a long and difficult process. Your teen may even relapse.
Work with the treatment center to develop a comprehensive aftercare plan. This may involve outpatient counseling, support groups, and ongoing therapy.
Be patient throughout this recovery journey and don’t forget to take care of yourself. It can be emotionally draining to support an addicted loved one so make sure you are still looking out for your own well-being.
Why Do Teens Misuse Drugs and Alcohol?
Teenagers may misuse drugs and alcohol for a variety of complex reasons, and it’s essential to understand that not every teen who experiments with substances will develop a substance abuse problem. However, there are several common factors that contribute to drug and alcohol misuse among adolescents.
For example, peer pressure is one of the most common reasons for abusing drugs and alcohol. Teens often want to fit in and be accepted by their peers. Peer pressure can lead them to experiment with substances, even if they may not have considered it otherwise. In fact, teens are more likely to try substances for the first time when hanging out in a social setting.
The number of risk factors a teenager is exposed to can also increase their likelihood of developing an addiction. A family history of substance abuse, a co-occurring mental illness, and early exposure to illicit substances are some of the most common risk factors for addiction. [1]
Other factors that may influence a teenager’s risk of substance abuse include their personality, their self-esteem, their environment, exposure to traumatic events, impulsive behavior, curiosity, and accessibility of substances. [1]
Adolescents are naturally curious and may try drugs or alcohol to satisfy their curiosity about the effects and experiences associated with these substances.
Adolescents, like adults, may turn to drugs or alcohol as a way to cope with stress, anxiety, depression, or other emotional or psychological challenges. Substance use can temporarily relieve emotional pain or provide an escape from difficult emotions.
In some cases, teens simply do not understand the dangers of drug or alcohol use. Inadequate education and awareness about the potential dangers can lead to experimentation.
Substance abuse and addiction often stem from a combination of these factors. This is why teen drug rehab aims to address the complex nature of this condition.
It’s important to note that not all teenagers who experience these factors will misuse drugs and alcohol. Many teens make responsible choices and avoid substance misuse. Encouraging open communication, providing education on the risks, and offering emotional support can help reduce the likelihood of drug and alcohol misuse among adolescents.
Consequences of Teen Drug Abuse
Proper addiction treatment is necessary because substance abuse can have several significant consequences. Teen drug abuse can have serious and far-reaching consequences that impact various aspects of a young person’s life.
For starters, drug abuse exposes teens to a wide range of physical health problems, including cardiovascular issues, respiratory problems, liver and kidney damage, and various other medical complications.
Substance abuse can lead to addiction, which is a chronic and relapsing medical condition characterized by the compulsive intake of a certain substance despite the consequences. Excessive drug or alcohol intake also exposes teens to the risk of an overdose, which can be fatal.
Other physical consequences include the increased risk of injuries due to accidents, physical disabilities, and diseases. While alcohol-related traffic fatalities among teens have declined, it is still a possibility. [2]
Substance abuse also affects a person’s mental health. Teens who abuse drugs are at a higher risk of developing mental health disorders like depression, anxiety, personality disorders, and psychosis. The use of certain substances can also exacerbate existing mental health issues.
Teens who abuse drugs and alcohol may also suffer from developmental lags, behavioral changes, cognitive impairment, memory problems, and other psychosocial dysfunctions. [2]
Even their academics may suffer. As addicted teenagers and young adults prioritize drugs and alcohol, they neglect their other responsibilities. This leads to poor academic performance, declining grades, truancy, and a higher likelihood of dropping out of school. While these issues seem minor at first, they can have long-term effects on a young person’s future prospects.
These consequences can affect not only the teenager but also their families and friends. Drug abuse can strain relationships with family, friends, and romantic partners. It can lead to conflicts, broken trust, and social isolation.
Engaging in illegal drug activities can result in legal consequences, including arrests, criminal charges, and potential incarceration.
The link between substance abuse and delinquency is undeniable. Many youth engaged in substance abuse eventually suffer from consequences like arrest, adjudication, and intervention by the juvenile justice system. [2]
With all of these risks, it is essential to address teen drug abuse promptly through prevention, education, and access to treatment and support. Early intervention and support systems are critical in helping teenagers overcome the challenges associated with drug abuse and reducing the long-term consequences.
Talking to Your Teen About Drug Use and Drug Rehab
Talking to your teenager about drug use is an essential but challenging conversation. We mentioned earlier the importance of choosing the right time and place, as well as educating yourself about this disorder.
It is also important to listen actively to their thoughts and concerns without interrupting. This helps create a dialogue rather than a lecture. If your teenager reveals that they’ve experimented with drugs or have concerns, stay calm. Reacting with anger or punishment may discourage them from opening up in the future.
Share your concerns honestly but without judgment. Let them know why you’re worried about drug use, including potential health risks, legal consequences, and the impact on their future.
Sometimes parents will say something like “make good decisions”. However, this may have very different meanings to different people. It helps to be specific. Make your rules and values clear so that they know which lines they can’t cross. [3]
Clearly communicate your expectations regarding drug use. Be firm but realistic in your expectations, and explain the consequences if those expectations are not met. Teach them about responsible decision-making and the importance of considering the consequences of their actions.
Use “I” statements to make the conversation less confrontational. Instead of saying, “You shouldn’t do drugs,” say, “I am concerned about your health”.
While it’s essential to be aware of your teenager’s activities, also respect their privacy. Finding that balance between trust and monitoring is crucial.
Let your teenager know that you are there to support them and that they can come to you with any concerns or questions. Be empathetic and understanding. By asking questions and letting them share their perspective, you can let your teenager know that their point of view is valued. This will make them more willing to engage in a conversation. [3]
Remember that this is an ongoing conversation, not a one-time event. Keep the lines of communication open and be patient. Building trust and understanding with your teenager is key to helping them make responsible choices regarding drug use.
Minimizing the Risk of Teenage Substance Abuse
There are plenty of other preventive strategies you can use to protect your teens from drug abuse and addiction.
Pay attention to their whereabouts and who they are spending time with. If your teen’s friends use drugs, then they may be more likely to take it themselves. They might feel pressure to experiment just to fit in. [1]
Also look out for warning signs of substance abuse such as isolating themselves, lying about their activities, or suddenly changing their social circles.
Make sure they understand the family rules. Establish consequences for when these lines are crossed. They need to know that drug abuse will not be tolerated. Consistently enforce consequences if your teen breaks these rules.
On top of all this, you can protect them from substance use by being a good role model and fostering a healthy environment. A strong bond between you and your teen may prevent them from using drugs. [1]
Even if your teen does end up abusing substances and developing addiction, all hope is not lost. Look for a rehab center near you and find out more about your treatment options. There are several teen drug rehab centers that cater specifically to this age group. Talk to your teen today and get them started on the road to sobriety.
Sources:
[2]: https://ojjdp.ojp.gov/sites/g/files/xyckuh176/files/pubs/drugid/ration-03.html
[3]: https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/teens-and-drugs-5-tips-for-talking-with-your-kids-2018081614565
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