Teenagers start using drugs and alcohol for many reasons. They might be pressured into it, try to cope with feelings of depression or make an impulsive decision to use at a party. Some develop drug problems and need treatment.
Basics
There are many types of alcohol and drug treatment for adolescents. Treatment types are determined by the adolescent's level of use, the specific drugs the teens is using and other mental health and medical issues.
Types
Detoxification, short-term and long-term rehabilitation, intensive outpatient programs, 12-step programs and individual, family and group therapy are all forms of alcohol and drug treatment.
Time Frame
Some types of treatment such as detoxification may last one week whereas other such as long-term rehabilitation can last for two years.
Advantages
Each type of treatment has its own advantages. For instance, including parents in treatment is critical to success, so rehabs that include parents and family therapy are beneficial. Detoxification might be needed if the teen is dependent on drugs or alcohol.
Considerations
When choosing a teen drug and alcohol treatment program, it's important to ensure that the program is specifically for teens due to their developmental needs. Also, if the teen has mental health issues, the facility should be able to treat them at the same time.
