As a society, we wholly depend on our youth to carry us forward. The saying, “The children are our future,” is not a cliché. It is the literal truth. At Pennsylvania Adult & Teen Challenge (PAATC), we think investing in our young people is not only the right thing to do for them but all of us, our society, and our planet. The sad truth is that, despite some short-term fluctuations, addiction among our youngest citizens is steadily rising over time. How do we stop this scourge that so adversely affects our most precious resource? If you are worried about a teenager close to you, consider learning more about residential addiction treatment programs for teens.
PAATC offers support for teens over the age of 18, giving them aid as they overcome addiction. In addition, through our outpatient program at the Naaman Center, we can address the needs of teens between the ages of 14 and 18. We hope you will reach out to us today. We will be glad to talk to you, answer your questions, address your fears, and offer you hope. Call 844.442.8673 or fill out our online form.
Our Troubled Youth
Statistics about adolescent substance abuse are readily available. Researchers, therapists, medical professionals study these trends closely in hopes of finding answers. Some substances of concern among teens are:
- Meth
- Heroin and other opiates
- Cocaine/crack
- Over-the-counter substances ranging from cough syrup to inhalants
However, the most common substances abused by teens are extremely accessible to them.
Alcohol
Alcohol is legal and present in most households and at most celebrations and holidays. Because teens must “sneak” alcohol, they often rely on rapid binging episodes during which they seek to consume as much as possible in a short period. Both alcohol poisoning and addiction can result. Alcohol is highly damaging to the developing brain and can cause long-term deficits in memory and learning.
Prescription Drugs
Prescription medications seem “harmless” because, after all, a doctor said it was okay. Of course, taking medications meant for someone else or not as prescribed is highly dangerous and can lead to addiction. Often, young abusers are unsure what they are taking when they get started down this path.
Why Do Teens Abuse Drugs and Alcohol?
Teenagers grapple with countless pressures and challenges of which parents may be unaware. For instance, based on the evidence, it is presumed that more teens have PTSD and other trauma-based disorders than are officially diagnosed or identified. Anxiety, depression, and suicidality are also on the rise among our troubled youth.
Peer influence, the desire to find a place within their social milieu, bullying, easing social anxiety, and self-medicating for underlying mental health challenges all influence teens to experiment with substances. This pattern leads, all too often, to dependence and addiction.
Troubled Youth Programs
Teen-centered programs for substance abuse are important in the battle against addiction among the young. Facilities like PAATC offer numerous options for people in Pennsylvania and environs designed specifically with teens in mind.
If your teen needs help, you may want to consider one of the following options:
- Outpatient treatment programs through the Naaman center for teens between the ages of 14-18
- Residential treatment programs for teens over the age of 18
- Dual diagnosis treatment for addiction and underlying mental health concerns
- Intensive outpatient programs for teens over the age of 18
These programs can give your teen the tools they need to move forward in life.
Find A Treatment Center For Your Teen at PAATC
We are ready to help teens leave trouble behind and find a path forward into the fulfilling, rewarding lives they deserve. Don’t wait. Reach out to PAATC today. Dialing 844.442.8673 or completing our online form will get you through to just the right person who can answer your questions and provide you with options.
