Drug and alcohol addictions are serious conditions at any age, but teen substance use can be especially devastating. Struggling with a substance use disorder (SUD) at an early age can mean living with the consequences of addiction for a lifetime. Without getting comprehensive treatment and receiving continuing support, teens with drug and alcohol abuse face the risk of severe harm to their physical and mental health, as well as fewer opportunities and more hardships into adulthood.
Fortunately, many teens can overcome substance use and go on to lead healthy, sober lives. If you or a teen in your life lives with substance use or addiction, the treatment you need is available at The Living Room. Reach out to our caring specialists now to explore our rehab for teens in New Jersey or any of our other addiction treatment programs.
Teen Substance Abuse: The Basics
Teen substance use is a common subject in TV shows and movies. Teens are often shown drinking at parties or using drugs. But how big of a problem is teen substance use in the real world?
Research shows that teen substance abuse is common, with about 75% of high school students reporting they have ever used an addictive substance. About two-thirds of teens also reported trying or using more than one addictive substance.
Health experts, educators, and parents have reasons to be concerned about teen substance use. Teens have relatively easy access to many addictive substances, including THC and tobacco products, alcohol, and prescription medications.
Teen substance use can lead to devastating short and long-term consequences, including addiction, severe health complications, and overdose. It’s essential to recognize the signs of teen substance use and take action to get help as quickly as possible.
Symptoms of Teen Substance Abuse
Teens may start using addictive substances for many reasons. They may be curious about the effects of drugs and alcohol, want to fit in with peers, or want to manage the symptoms of a mental health condition.
Teen substance use can quickly develop into a substance use disorder (SUD) that requires comprehensive treatment. Without intervention, treatment, and support, teens can develop physical dependence and addiction, which can be very challenging to overcome.
Recognizing the symptoms of teen drug use can help you find treatment for a teen in your life. Here are some of the most common symptoms of a substance use disorder:
- Self-medicating with drugs and alcohol (using these substances to manage mental illness or physical pain)
- Using more of a prescription drug than prescribed or using prescription drugs recreationally
- Needing more of a substance to get the desired effects over time
- Hiding, being secretive, or lying about their substance use
- Participating in illegal activity
- Falling behind in school or responsibilities at home
- Noticeable changes in appetite, sleep, or mood
- Isolating from friends and family
- Making a new group of friends very quickly
- Losing interest in hobbies or activities they once enjoyed
- Being injured while using a substance
- Spending a lot of time and energy thinking about getting a substance, using it, or recovering from it
Research shows that people who start using addictive substances during adolescence are more likely to develop an addiction or face significant harm from their substance use. Noticing some of these behaviors in your teen may be a sign that they need professional treatment.
What to Expect From Rehab For Teens in New Jersey
New Jersey is home to a wide range of treatment programs to help people overcome substance abuse. However, specialized addiction treatment for teens is crucial because their needs in rehab are often different than the needs of adults.
Teen addiction rehab happens in stages. Knowing what to expect from a treatment program can help teens seek the care they need with more confidence.
Assessment
Before starting a treatment program in New Jersey, the treatment team will assess the teen’s needs and identify any factors that may complicate detox and rehab. The assessment may consist of a physical exam and lab testing, mental health and medical history, current substance use, and more.
Detox
Teens who require medical support during detoxification will receive monitoring, medications, and mental health support as they go through withdrawal.
Stabilization and rehab
After a complete detox, teens will begin to follow a thoughtfully created treatment plan that consists of evidence-based and holistic therapies that address the physical, behavioral, and psychological aspects of their substance use.
Treatment plans may include:
- Individual, group, and family therapy
- Medications
- Mental health and medical treatment
- Relapse-prevention and coping skills education
- Aftercare planning
- Mental health treatment
- Exercise, nutrition support, art and music therapy, and other holistic therapies
Teens who require round-the-clock monitoring and care may be admitted to an inpatient teen rehab program. Those who do not require 24/7 care may participate in partial care or outpatient rehab programs.
The amount of time each person spends in treatment depends on a variety of factors, including co-occurring disorders, the severity of the addiction, and mental or physical healthcare needs during rehab.
After completing a rehab program, teens must develop and follow an aftercare plan that includes recovery support, mental health care, and other community-based activities that support their long-term health and sobriety.
Find Rehab For Teens in New Jersey
If a teen in your life struggles with substance use or addiction, you are not alone. Reach out to the caring specialists at The Living Room now to learn about our effective, supportive teen substance use disorder treatment plans.