Teen Drug Rehab
Teen drug rehab combines the key elements essential in effectively treating adolescent girls and boys with substance abuse problems. As compared with adults, adolescents have higher rates of dual diagnosis and developmental differences. Teen drug rehab treatment needs can be challenging and often involve more comprehensive and multi-disciplinary approaches. Successful programs are designed to address crucial elements in establishing effective, individualized, and comprehensive care for adolescent substance abuse treatment.
Teen drug addiction is one of the most significant problems facing families in the 21st century. Young people struggling with addiction have so much to lose, and often parents feel helpless as they watch their children slip away from them and into the abyss of substance abuse and dependence. Professional teen drug rehab programs provide hope. Whether the issue is teen alcoholism or prescription drug addiction, adolescent rehab centers help address the physical and psychological components of addiction - giving the young person a new lease on life, and a chance to experience the healthiest, happiest future imaginable.
Research suggests that lengthier teen drug rehab stays for adolescents correlate with better success rates. The outcome of comprehensive screening assessments accomplished prior to admission and the ongoing clinical assessment during the adolescent's stay provides the clinical determination of the adolescent clinical needs and progress. It is in this clinical context that recommendations are made in relation to length of stay.
When considering a teen drug rehab there are many different aspects to take into account.
- The location of a residential facility is critical since you will not simply be dropping your teen off and picking him or her up a few weeks or months later. Parents play an integral part in adolescent treatment and visit the facility on a regular basis.
- The cost of treatment should be affordable and covered by insurance (managed care or Medicaid). Many programs have scholarships that cover any difference between fees and pocketbook. Ask what financial assistance is available. Get a list of costs that are covered and those that are not.
- Do not even consider a facility that lacks basic accreditation. Ask if it is state licensed (usually by the Department of Health) and currently accredited by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO)
- Look for a statement of philosophy of treatment. Does the program treat adolescents only, or are adults housed in the same location? Research shows that the most effective teen treatment is totally separated from adult programs.
- Is the program it based on a self-help model with 12-Step programs being emphasized? What if your child rejects the spiritual basis of such programs, are there alternative recovery styles available also?
- What is the average length of a residential stay? This can range from a month to a year, depending on the facility. How many teens are in treatment at any one time? How big are therapeutic groups? What are the grounds for dismissal from the program?
- How does the program handle aftercare? Although there will be many changes in your child during his or her time in residential treatment, aftercare - support after leaving an inpatient program -- is the heart of maintaining recovery.
What can you expect once you have chosen a successful teen drug rehab?
- A comprehensive screening assessment that includes psychiatric, psychological, medical, and social factors in the adolescent's life to best match them with an appropriate level of care and treatment.
- Comprehensive and integrated treatment approaches that address all aspects of the adolescent's life.
- Developmentally appropriate programming where activities and materials reflect the developmental differences between adults and adolescents.
- Licensed, qualified staff trained specifically in adolescent development, substance abuse and addiction.
- Family involvement in all aspects of treatment and recovery.
- Many teen drug rehab programs offer a gender-specific treatment environment where the program can address the distinct needs of adolescent girls in a safe, nurturing, gender-specific group and residential setting.
The task of choosing a teen drug rehab takes time and requires a parent to become educated about substance abuse. But it is this process that will allow you to participate effectively in your child's recovery. It is an investment worth making. Please contact us for professional help in finding a teen drug rehab center and help for your child.