In many ways, teens are more susceptible to substance abuse than adults.
Because the teenage brain is not fully developed until one’s mid-twenties, drug and alcohol abuse can impair the development of healthy coping skills — and even the ability to communicate with those around them meaningfully.
That’s why it’s vital to get your teen help as quickly as possible, so he or she can maintain healthy behavior and psychological wellbeing for optimal growth and development.
It can be utterly devastating to watch the child you love struggle with alcohol or drug addiction. At Safe Landing, we understand — and we can help your loved one recover, using both evidence-based therapies and holistic approaches. Together, we’ll help your teen to discover a life free of substances, and a brighter, healthier future.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):
It’s not always easy to know when a teen is exhibiting a healthy degree of rebellion, and when he or she has developed an addiction to drugs or alcohol. In fact, it can be quite difficult to recognize the warning signs of substance abuse for teens. Adolescents may make an effort to hide their drug use and drinking. However, as substance abuse progresses, it becomes increasingly difficult to conceal the physical, emotional and behavioral effects.
Remember, it’s up to you as the caregiver to initiate a conversation with your teen if you suspect he or she may be using drugs or alcohol. Meanwhile, this isn’t the time to place blame or lecture. Approach your child with compassion and understanding as you ask questions.
Of course, it’s possible that he or she won’t be truthful at first; maintain your composure, and let your child know you’re here to help. If you still suspect drug or alcohol use, you can speak with your child’s pediatrician about next steps. Or you can talk to the team at Safe Landing about our recommendation.
If your child does admit to using drugs or alcohol, please reach out to us immediately. He or she likely isn’t aware of the severity of the problem, as addiction is exceptionally difficult to self-diagnose — even for older, more seasoned users of drugs and alcohol. The situation likely will not improve without treatment, so don’t wait.
At Safe Landing, our teen drug rehab focuses exclusively on the needs of adolescents. We understand that teens are impacted by addiction differently than adults — and we know how to treat them effectively. Learn More >
Alcohol is one of the most commonly abused substances among teens. Intervention through alcohol rehab can help your child develop the skills and tools necessary for a bright future free from addiction. Learn More >
Substance abuse is often tied to underlying mental health conditions. Adolescents may self-medicate as a way of addressing undiagnosed disorders such as anxiety, depression, and trauma or PTSD. Learn More >
At Safe Landing, we have extensive experience treating a wide variety of substance abuse types, including:
Many of our clients come to us with addiction to a combination of substances. We’ll spend time talking to your teen to understand their situation and get a sense of their addiction history. We also use this opportunity to diagnose any co-occurring mental health conditions that may have been contributing to your child’s substance abuse. Then, we’ll craft an individualized recovery plan exclusively for your teen — so he or she has the tools for successful, lasting sobriety.
Not all addiction treatment programs are open to teens, but Safe Landing is a private treatment facility that caters to this special population. Our facility offers different levels of care, so it is equipped to help teens with different needs, goals and addiction severity. Its treatment programs include inpatient treatment or partial hospitalization programs that provide rehab while the teen lives on-site, or intensive outpatient programs or outpatient treatment that allows the teen to stay at home while receiving treatment during specific sessions.
No matter what, your teen will have access to effective, evidence-based therapy, as well as holistic options that provide a sense of wellbeing and balance throughout early recovery. Therapies include:
Along the way, we make sure that substance abuse treatment is engaging and enjoyable for teens, so they learn to have fun without drugs and alcohol. They’ll also have the chance to build lasting relationships in recovery.
