Addiction isn’t always obvious. Sometimes, the first indicator is something more subtle, like secretive behavior, lack of energy, or a drop in a letter grade. But as time passes, you may notice more dire symptoms—and by that point, the addiction may have spiraled beyond anyone’s control.
Firstly, your teen’s addiction is neither their fault nor your failing as a parent; addiction is a disease that can happen to the best of people in spite of their best efforts. Secondly, it’s never too late to take action. Addiction can always be reversed with professional help, whether it’s with outpatient therapy or a residential treatment program.
Substance Use: The Risk to Teens
Substance use disorder is a mental health condition characterized by addiction to substances and continuous use in spite of the consequences. In teens, this disorder is particularly dangerous, as many substances can disrupt the development of the brain.
However, experts say that young people tend to be more at risk of developing addictions due to peer pressure or emotional dysregulation, especially if they have untreated mental illnesses.
Signs of an Addiction
Teens suffering from addiction often exhibit physical, behavioral, and emotional changes, all of which can be caused by illicit drugs, prescription medications, or alcohol.
According to Clearfork Academy, a Texas-based mental health provider that specializes in treating teen addiction and mental disorders, some of the most common signs of addiction include:
- Impaired coordination
- Nosebleeds
- Weight fluctuations
- Unusual smells of breath, body, or clothes
Teens combating addiction may also engage in risk-taking behaviors, withdraw from family and friends, lose interest in their hobbies, or abruptly begin performing poorly in school.
What to Do If Your Teen Has an Addiction
If you’ve discovered that your teen has an addiction, the most important thing to do is to remain nonjudgmental and supportive. Remember, addiction is not a choice, but a disease, and a complex one at that. It often requires professional treatment for complete recovery.
You must also note that teens have more specialized needs than adults. That means that a treatment center with programs designed around teenage addiction will have the highest chances of success. For severe cases, look for residential treatment programs that address both substance use disorder and any co-occurring mental health disorders or behavioral issues. These programs often take an integrative approach to addiction, using a combination of evidence-based therapies and holistic methods that are provided in a structured and substance-free environment by mental health professionals with extensive experience in addiction treatment, psychiatry, psychotherapy, drug counseling, and medical care.
Actual treatments will differ based on the needs of the individual, but in most cases, patients will be supervised around the clock as they undergo a medical detox, ensuring they are able to reduce their dependence on the addictive substance safely. After their detox, they will undergo weekly one-on-one counseling with a licensed therapist, and they may also be given the opportunity to participate in group therapy, family therapy, and outdoor experiential activities.
Some facilities, like Clearfork Academy, even offer a faith-based component, as spirituality has been known to help addicted individuals abstain.
No matter what, it’s important to remember that your teen doesn’t have to face their addiction alone—and neither do you. With the right treatment, you can help your teen regain control of their life and thrive once again.
Clearfork Academy
info@clearforkacademy.com
+1-888-430-5149
7820 Hanger Cutoff Road
Fort Worth
TX
76135
United States
