[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Many teenagers across the US become addicted to drugs. What starts as a taste of tobacco, alcohol, or other drugs can lead to substance use disorder, also called addiction, in young adults.   

Some teenagers may try drugs a few times and stop; others become addicted. They try several substances like alcohol, cigarettes, inhalants, over-the-counter medicines, prescriptions, and illegal drugs, out of which Marijuana is the most abused drug.  

If your teenager is showing signs of addiction, the first thing you should do is send them to an adolescent drug treatment center.  

What Are The Factors That Lead To Adolescent Drug Addiction?  

Many factors can lead to drug addiction; some of the most common ones are as follows:  

• Peer pressure  
• Trying to fit in with certain groups or friends  
• They like the way it makes them feel  

• They think it makes them “grown up.”  
• They may feel it is exciting  
• Teens in families where they feel no connection to their parents  
• Teens with poor self-esteem, although they may also have some other mental problems like depression and anxiety  
• Teens whose families have a history of substance abuse  

Signs of Substance Abuse  

It’s important that you know the tell-tales of substance abuse in teens:  

• Loses interest in school, skipping classes, drop-in grades  
• Overly tired with red eyes  
• New friends who have no interest in family or school activities  

• Changes in sleep patterns, mood, and attitude  
• Sudden weight loss or weight gain  

Substance Abuse And The Damage It Causes  

Substance abuse leads to multiple problems at home, loss of friends, drop in grades, and can cause extensive psychological distress.  

In addition to that, substance abuse may also lead to sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and can cause pregnancy. Drug and alcohol use may also lead to car accidents, violence, suicides, or drowning. Even occasional alcohol use in teens can lead to future addiction problems in adults.  

Certain drugs may even lead to severe health problems, and an overdose could cause brain damage or even death. Illegal drugs are usually made in home labs and can be very strong, leading to serious problems.  

What to Expect in Adolescent Addiction Therapy?  

The type of therapy your teen requires will depend on the level of substance abuse. If your teen is addicted, you must take professional help from a drug rehab center or therapist.  

There are many benefits of getting professional help, whether an outpatient treatment program or a residential treatment program. Adolescent-specific rehab treats substance use disorder through a treatment program that includes medical drug detox and counseling and a boost in self-esteem and confidence for youth. Inpatient programs lasting 30 to 90 days, in particular, provide a safe and structured setting.  

A variety of treatment options are available, which include:  

• Group counseling  
• Individual counseling  
• Holistic therapies  
• Substance use disorder education  

While participating in an adolescent addiction therapy program, teens will have access to medical detox and counseling, which helps them make significant and long-lasting changes in their lives. A few academic treatment programs also provide fully accredited educational programs that allow teens to have the academic support they need to succeed.  

During therapy, a teen needs the utmost support from family and friends. They need to feel loved and valued. Addiction therapy also helps parents and teens understand the causes that lead to addiction and help reconcile damaged relationships caused by addiction.  

Adolescent addiction treatments also help teens in learning new skills. Holistic treatments like acupuncture, yoga, and meditation, taught during addiction therapy, also teach teens to cope with stress and anxiety, promoting mental and physical health. Rehabilitation centers also teach teens healthier and positive ways to have fun and interact with others.  

Finally, adolescent addiction treatment encourages family counseling and provides space for families to repair their relationships and communicate effectively.  

What Should You Do If You Find Your Child Abusing Drugs?  

If you find your child using drugs, don’t take it lightly. Talk to your teen about it without using harsh or judging language. Try to be as supportive as you can. Sometimes, an angry confrontation pushes your teen away, aggravating the drug problem. If you feel uncomfortable speaking to them about it, ask for help from a therapist or pediatrician.  

Treatment centers like More Life Recovery are committed to helping and providing long-term recovery and optimum healing for every individual.  

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substance abuse treatment