How the Addiction and Recovery Process Differs with Teens

Studies conducted by the National Institute on Drug Abuse reveal that 70% of teens have tried alcohol, almost 50% have tried illegal drugs and 20% have misused prescription medication. For some of these teens, this experimentation will lead to addiction. Even more alarming is the fact that many of these teens will not seek help for their addiction or they will not receive treatment that is geared towards their unique needs. This is because teens and adults have very different needs when it comes to the recovery process.

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Understanding Teen Addiction

Teens try alcohol and drugs for the first time for very different reasons than adults. Many times, teens are just trying to “fit” in with the crowd or they face intense pressure from their peers. Some teens also use drugs and alcohol as a type of rebellion against their friends or family members. In addition, teens struggle with impulse control, which can lead to an addiction very quickly.

Unique Recovery Process

The recovery process for teens differs in many ways from adult treatment options, including:

  • Still Developing – Teens’ brains will continue to develop until they reach their mid-20s, which puts them at greater risk for brain damage and ongoing developmental problems. Teens are also unable to understand fully the long-term effect that drugs and alcohol may have.
  • Family Involvement – Family support is not just encouraged during the teen recovery process, it is required. Teens rely on their family for financial support, transportation to and from treatment and counseling sessions, insurance coverage, and emotional support.
  • Peer Pressure – Peer pressure not only entices teens to try drugs and alcohol for the first time, but it also encourages their continued use. Teen recovery programs at drug addiction treatment centers in Philadelphia will work to equip teens with the skills they need to fight the peer pressure temptation to secure their recovery.
  • Adult Interaction – Many teens head into a recovery program with a negative view of adults. This may be due to abuse, neglect, or criticism they have received from adults in the past. Teen recovery counselors must and will always start by building trust with the teen first.

Teen addiction treatment centers in Philadelphia are equipped to deal with the specific needs of teens. These centers understand the triggers behind teen addiction and how to treat it properly.
If you need help with your teen or if you are a teen struggling with addiction, please give us a call, we’re here to help.

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