Addiction doesn’t just impact adults; many teens struggle with drugs as well. One survey funded by the National Institute on Drug Abuse found that roughly a quarter of all 12th graders used illicit drugs in the past month, and 35 percent consumed alcohol. Many of them, especially those suffering from pre-existing mental health conditions, are likely to develop (or already have) a substance abuse problem.
For a teen to overcome an addiction, they need a place to recover. That place, of course, must be safe.
What Makes a Safe Rehab for Teens?
Security as a Parent
Do you feel comfortable and relaxed when on the premises or in their accommodation? Listen to your gut feelings, but don’t be too hasty to trust or distrust.
Privacy
Are outsiders allowed to enter the space for reasons other than visiting loved ones or attending family-oriented group meetings? This should never be allowed.
Physical and Medical Safety
Is the rehab center equipped with medical professionals that are available 24/7 to treat any emergency situations or common withdrawal symptoms? This is absolutely necessary?
Attributes of a Teen-Friendly Rehab Facility
Rehab might seem like an unappealing destination for teens, so look for facilities that offer features that appeal to teenage patients. There are, in fact, rehab clinics that serve exclusively teenagers. You may expect these facilities to be even more stressful for an already-struggling teenager, but it has been reported that teens in these facilities are even more at ease. The advantage is that they learn to integrate with their peers in healthy, productive ways, in a controlled environment that filters out the drama and pressure.
Even teens who are court-ordered to attend rehab tend to warm up to treatment if given comfortable accommodations and friendly staff. Further, they are often pleasantly surprised and excited by the luxury amenities like swimming pools, yoga classes and on-site chefs. Ironically, for teenagers who feel trapped, rehab can feel like the ultimate freedom: They’re safe, they’re care for, and they have something to which they can look forward: addiction-free life.
Appropriate Levels of Care for Teens
Rehab is available in a number of formats: private detox, residential programs, and outpatient programs. Each is designed to target the needs and lifestyles of different groups of patients, depending on their needs. For anyone whose addiction is severe enough to require detox, we highly recommend inpatient, not outpatient, treatment. Also note that recovery continues even after treatment: You must continue with aftercare services like AA or private therapy meetings as well.
Call 949-637-5499 today and learn how rehab can be the stepping stone to a healthier future.
