Inpatient treatment, also known as residential treatment, is a type of intensive mental health care that involves round-the-clock supervision and support within a live-in facility. Often times it can act as the first step in teen addiction treatment and may be followed by outpatient treatment at a teen rehab treatment center.
It may be recommended for teenagers who are struggling with severe mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or substance misuse. In some cases, inpatient addiction treatment can also be beneficial for teens with behavioral disorders or trauma-related issues.
Recognizing the Signs of Drug Abuse
Some common signs of drug abuse in teens include:
- Changes in behavior or mood, such as increased aggression or withdrawal from family and friends
- Changes in appearance, such as sudden weight loss or neglecting personal hygiene
- A decline in academic performance and attendance at school
- Loss of interest in activities they once enjoyed
Evaluating the Need for Inpatient Addiction Treatment
While it can be difficult to recognize when inpatient addiction treatment is necessary for your teen, there are certain situations where it may be the best option.
Residential substance abuse treatment may be beneficial if your teen is struggling with a more severe addiction, has severe withdrawal symptoms, or if they have co-occurring mental disorders.
It may also be recommended if outpatient treatment has been unsuccessful or you are concerned for your teen’s safety for the safety of other family members or peers.
Inpatient addiction treatment provides a safe and secure environment for your teen to receive intensive therapy and medical support and can transition to additional outpatient treatment for long-term sobriety from teen drug use.
Benefits of Inpatient Addiction Treatment for Teens
There are many benefits of inpatient addiction treatment for teenagers, including:
- Round-the-clock supervision and support from trained professionals
- A structured daily schedule that includes individual therapy, group therapy, and other therapeutic activities
- A safe and supportive environment where teens can focus on their recovery without outside distractions
- Access to medical care and medication management, if necessary
- Opportunities for family members to be involved and therapy to improve communication and relationships within family life
Inpatient care also often acts as a stepping stone to outpatient treatment after the initial phase of recovery. Once your teen has successfully completed a residential treatment program, they can continue their recovery journey in outpatient programs.
Outpatient therapy provides a less restrictive environment and allows your teen to gradually integrate back into their everyday life while staying connected to a supportive network of professionals and receiving emotional support from peers in recovery.
Understanding Substance Use Disorder in Teens
Substance use disorder is a chronic brain disease characterized by compulsive drug-seeking behavior despite negative consequences. It can affect people of all ages, including teenagers and young adults. Often, substance use disorder in teens is a result of underlying mental issues or trauma.
Treating teens in an inpatient setting can address both the addiction and any underlying mental health concerns through individualized therapy and support. It also provides a safe and structured environment for young adults to develop coping skills and strategies to manage their addiction in the long term.
Identifying Risk Factors for Substance Use Disorder in Teens
- Family history of substance abuse or addiction
- Co-occurring mental health disorders
- Traumatic experiences or high levels of stress
- Peer pressure and easy access to drugs and alcohol
Prevention, Intervention, and Teen Addiction Treatment Strategies
Prevention is always the best approach when it comes to teen addiction. Open communication, setting clear boundaries and expectations, and being aware of potential risk factors can all help prevent substance abuse in teens.
However, if your teen is already struggling with addiction, it’s important to intervene as soon as possible. This may involve seeking professional help and considering options such as inpatient addiction treatment.
In addition to inpatient addiction treatment, there are various other strategies that can be effective in treating teen addiction, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, family therapy, support groups, and outpatient rehab.
Alcoholics Anonymous, for example, provides a community of peers, and AA meetings are a safe place for your teen to share their experiences without fear of judgment.
Seeking Professional Help for Substance Abuse and Mental Health Disorders in Teens
If you are concerned about your teenager’s substance use or mental health, it’s important to seek help from healthcare professionals. Inpatient care can provide the intensive support and resources necessary for teens and young adults to overcome addiction and heal from underlying mental health issues through dual-diagnosis treatment.
Addiction Recovery at Zenith
At Zenith Behavioral Health, we offer a range of treatment options for teenagers who are abusing drugs or alcohol, as well as provide mental health treatment for co-occurring disorders. Our dual-diagnosis treatment programs are designed to address the complex needs of teens and help them achieve lasting addiction recovery.
Our inpatient treatment program provides a safe and supportive environment for teenagers to receive intensive therapy, medical care, and medication management if needed. Our trained professionals work closely with each teen to develop an individualized treatment plan that addresses their specific needs and concerns.
If your teen is struggling with adolescent substance abuse disorder and/or mental illness, reach out to us via our contact form or by calling (602) 847-9887. We can provide family support and individual and group therapy, and our safe, comfortable treatment center and treatment models can help young people break free from the substance addiction cycle and learn the skills needed for long-term recovery.
