It’s not uncommon for teens to experiment with drugs or alcohol. Some teens may start experimenting with drugs or alcohol as a way to have fun, and others may start experimenting as a way to cope with underlying issues of depression or low self-esteem. Some might even consider this a rite of passage, but the reality is that you never know when experimentation will lead to abuse and addiction. Early intervention can prevent your teenager from developing chronic addictions and permanent damage that will affect your child for the rest of his life.
Teen Drug Rehab in California: Know the Signs
Sometimes it’s difficult to tell if your child is using drugs or alcohol because temper outbursts, moodiness, changes in sleeping habits and changes in hobbies or other interests are common in teens. That’s why it’s important to really pay attention to your teen and follow your instinct if you think something is wrong. Watch for signs of depression, hostility, carelessness with grooming, withdrawal or slipping grades. Here are some other signs that your teen may be drinking or using drugs:
* Changes in friends
* Missing school
* Increased secrecy about possessions or activities
* Use of incense, room deodorant or perfume to hide smoke or chemical odors
* Secretive or “coded” language when talking to friends
* Wearing clothes that highlight drug use
* Increase in borrowing money
* Evidence of drug paraphernalia such as pipes, rolling papers, etc.
* Evidence of inhalant products, such as hairspray, nail polish, correction fluid and common household products. Rags and paper bags are sometimes used as accessories.
* Bottles of eye drops, which may be used to mask bloodshot eyes or dilated pupils
* New use of mouthwash or breath mints to cover up the smell of alcohol
* Missing prescription drugs — especially narcotics and mood stabilizers
These warning signs often indicate that substance abuse is taking place. It’s hard to have a conversation about your teen’s drug use and even harder to suggest drug rehab, but the sooner you take action the easier it will be for your teen to kick their abusive habits.
Teen Drug Rehab in California: What to Expect
Drug rehab is the same for teens as it is for adults. First your child will enter a detoxification period where all traces of drugs or alcohol are removed from their system. After safely detoxing, your teen will enter a residential addiction treatment program for 30 to 90 days, depending on the severity of their addiction.
Most drug treatment programs offer a combination of 12-step programs, educational counseling and cognitive-behavioral therapy. In addition to these traditional treatment methods, many drug treatment programs also offer alternative methods of treatment. These highly effective alternative treatments include holistic treatments that address a person’s entire well-being, including their physical health, mental health, and spiritual health. Some of the most popular treatments for drug addiction are yoga, Chinese medicine, and more.
Another thing to consider when choosing a teen drug rehab is if they offer dual diagnosis treatment. According to a 2009 study, an estimated 70 percent of teens suffer from undiagnosed clinical depression. Oftentimes teens and young adults will turn to drugs as a way to cope with an underlying mood or personality disorder, such as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), etc. Dual diagnosis treatment will simultaneously treat both the addiction and the underlying disorder so that full recovery is possible.
Don’t let your child suffer at the hands of addiction any longer. Call Casa Palmera today and put your teen in the hands of trained, highly skilled professional who will bring your child back to a healthy, happy life.
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