The National Center on Drug Abuse Statistics reports that 788,000 teenagers meet the criteria for an illicit drug use disorder (IDUD) or drug addiction. Addiction can be devastating, but it is possible to overcome it if young people receive the treatment and support they need.
Adolescents and young adults struggling with substance use disorder (SUD) may face additional challenges during recovery. Teens and young adults require specialized treatment to address the complex roots of their substance use. Young people with co-occurring mental health conditions require dual diagnosis treatment to treat both conditions at the same time.
Substance abuse therapy is a critical aspect of evidence-based treatment plans. Participating in therapy can help teens understand their addictions and learn skills to manage them for life. People may attend therapy sessions as part of a teen rehab program or independently.
This article will explore substance abuse therapy for teens. You will learn:
- What happens in teen addiction therapy programs
- The benefits of therapy in addiction treatment
- Where to find high-quality therapy and treatment for teens in New Jersey
If you or a teen in your life struggles with substance abuse, you are not alone. Contact the intake specialists at The Living Room to learn about our holistic programs. Reach out with questions or to schedule an intake appointment.
Recognizing Teen Substance Abuse
Adolescents and young adults may start using drugs or alcohol for different reasons. They may want to fit in with friends, experience the pleasurable side effects, or simply be curious.
Prolonged substance abuse can lead to a life-threatening addiction. Parents and guardians can watch for signs of teen substance abuse, including:
- Increased isolation
- Falling behind at school
- Neglecting responsibilities at work, school, or home
- Hiding or lying about substance use
- Changes in sleep, appetite, or mood
- New or worsening mental health symptoms
- Legal or financial trouble
Family members may find paraphernalia or drugs or notice the signs of intoxication. Teens can develop substance use disorder (SUD), even if they do not have known risk factors for addiction. It is critical to seek treatment as soon as you recognize the signs of teen drug use.
What is Addiction Therapy for Teens?
Most comprehensive addiction treatment programs include individual and group therapy. Teens may participate in addiction therapy as part of an inpatient or outpatient treatment program. Many treatment centers also offer therapy to individuals in the community.
There are several therapeutic approaches common in addiction treatment. Here is a quick overview of some of the most common types of addiction therapy.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) helps teens recognize the connection between their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Teens learn strategies to manage challenges and improve their resilience, which can support recovery.
Dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT)
Dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) teaches teens about their emotions and how to regulate them. People learn how to tolerate stress more effectively, which can reduce harmful behaviors like substance use.
Motivational Interviewing
Motivational interviewing can help to increase a teen’s commitment to recovery. It can be effective at increasing motivation in teens who feel ambivalent about sobriety.
Life skills therapy
Teens can benefit from learning new strategies to care for themselves and manage responsibilities. During life skills therapy, teens may learn:
- Emotional regulation skills
- Time management skills
- Personal care skills
- How to use technology safely
- Mindfulness
- Healthy relationship skills
- Problem-solving
- Healthy conflict resolution
Improving their life skills can reduce stress and improve confidence, which may help teens navigate recovery.
Family therapy
Family support is one of the most important aspects of a teen’s recovery. Family therapy can help teens and their family members work together toward common goals. Families learn about addiction and recovery, identify enabling behaviors, and develop healthier communication.
Group therapy
Group therapy can help teens feel less isolated as they navigate recovery. It can help people develop new skills, improve communication, and learn from others’ experiences.
Contingency management
Contingency management therapy provides rewards when teens meet certain recovery milestones. People may receive small gifts, like gift cards or prizes, for clean drug screenings, meeting attendance, and other things.
People have different needs in recovery. Therapists may use a variety of techniques when working with adolescents and young adults. Therapy can help teens learn and think about their addiction in new ways. It can also give people practical skills that can reduce the risk of relapse.
The Benefits of Therapy in Addiction Treatment
Addiction therapy gives teens a safe place to explore the roots of their substance use. Other goals of addiction therapy include:
- Helping people explore and process emotions
- Helping people understand their behaviors and motivations
- Reduce stress
- Reduce harmful behaviors
- Improve communications skills
- Giving people the tools to manage challenges without relapsing
- Improving relationships with family members and other
Therapy can help teens address trauma, develop healthier coping skills, and protect their sobriety during challenges. It is a critical aspect of holistic addiction treatment.
Find Addiction Therapy for Teens in New Jersey
If you or a teen in your life struggles with substance abuse or addiction, find compassionate, effective treatment at The Living Room. Contact our intake specialists to learn about our New Jersey adolescent treatment programs or to schedule an intake appointment.
References:
- National Institute of Health (NIH): Research Review: What Have We Learned About Adolescent Substance Use?
- National Center for Drug Abuse Statistics (NCDAS): Drug Use Among Youth: Facts & Statistics