According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, by the time a young person reaches high school, there is a strong likelihood he or she will have tried alcohol or drugs. In fact, approximately 70 percent of high school seniors admit to trying drugs at least once. Some of these young people will continue down the path of consuming drugs or alcohol and become addicted. Seeking the help of a family therapist is critical before drug addiction becomes a problem. During a young adult rehab program, students learn coping skills and strategies to resist substance abuse. Then, they can go on to live full, productive lives.
What Drugs Do Adolescents Take?
Adolescents and young adults may try a variety of drugs. Different drugs come and go with the times, but some drugs stay around. In this generation, the drugs commonly taken by adolescents are:
- Designer drugs such as Spice, K2, and so on
- Cocaine and Amphetamines
- Marijuana
- Inhalants
- Prescription drugs including pain killers and benzos
- Heroin
Why Do Adolescents Abuse Drugs or Alcohol?
Adolescents start using drugs for different reasons. Peer pressure certainly plays a part for some young people, especially those who feel like they don’t fit in. Adolescents crave acceptance by the group if they are emotionally unstable.
Another reason young people may become addicted to drugs is to numb emotional pain due to something traumatic event in their lives. Drugs help them forget whatever is bothering them for the time being. The problem is they don’t ever really deal with the emotional trauma and they end up with an additional problem by becoming addicted to drugs.
Finally, many adolescents suffer from undiagnosed mental health illnesses. When left untreated, they don’t know what’s wrong with them and seek the comfort they find in drugs or alcohol. This is a form of self-medicating. If they received mental health treatment, they could be put on the right medication and feel much better. There would be no need for self-medicating.
How Can a Family Therapist Help?
Adolescents who see a family therapist for addiction during drug and alcohol treatment will gain tremendous benefits. First, they have the opportunity to detox in a safe, nurturing environment. Secondly, they receive an evaluation and assessment for dual diagnosis. This lets the family know if there are any underlying mental health disorders. Finally, a dual diagnosis treatment plan ensures that both conditions are independently treated.
Find Hope for Your Adolescent
If a young adult in your home is needing detox and mental health resources, then BoardPrep Recovery Center® is the place to be. This widely recognized facility offers community housing, day and night treatment without housing, and a quasi-residential program. Some of the therapy programs offered include:
Don’t let addiction troubles hinder your family’s happiness and peace. You can be successful by finding a quality family therapist at a premier drug rehab. Contact us at 866.796.4720, and we’ll get you started on the journey to a whole new life.
