Substance use affects a significant number of teenagers. Alcohol is the most common substance used by teens, while 15% of high school students report having ever used illicit drugs and 14% report having ever misused prescription opioids. The majority of adults with substance use disorder (SUD) started using in their adolescent years.
Substance use disorders often coexist with other mental health or behavioral health issues like anxiety or depression. These are called comorbid or co-occurring conditions, which are best treated with a dual-diagnosis approach that addresses both the substance use disorder and any underlying contributors. Learn more about the relationship between substance use and mental health.
With residential Substance Use Disorder treatment at Muir Wood, teens are able to evaluate their relationship with substances, identify underlying triggers, and gain skills for long-term recovery.
Understanding Substance Use Disorders in Teens
Substance use can be concerning during vulnerable adolescent years, but disordered substance use reaches a clinical level and significantly impacts health and quality of life. Manifestation ranges from mild to severe (such as in cases of addiction). Those with a substance use disorder will continue to use despite the consequences.
Substance use disorders are categorized based on the specific substances involved. SUDs in teens may include:
- Alcohol Use Disorder
- Cannabis Use Disorder
- Opioid Use Disorder
- And others
Signs, Symptoms, and Consequences of a Substance Use Disorder
While only a qualified clinician can diagnose a substance use disorder, a parent may identify changes in their teen’s health or behavior that may signal substance use. Teens using drugs or alcohol may exhibit:
- Behavioral changes like academic decline, social withdrawal, or significant routine shifts
- Physical symptoms like fluctuating weight, insomnia or drowsiness, or intoxication
- Psychological indicators like anxiety, depression, or increased moodiness
As they engage in disordered behavior with substances, teens may also:
- Spend a lot of time obtaining or using substances
- Hyperfixate on substances even when not using
- Neglect relationships, responsibilities, and basic self-care
- Quit once-enjoyed recreational activities
- Experience disruptive cycles of intoxication and withdrawal
- Develop tolerance for the substance and seek it out in increasing amounts
Additionally, teens who engage in substance use may have a hard time making sound decisions, solving problems, and regulating their emotions. Especially when it is disordered, substance use can be linked with other risky behaviors, such as unsafe sexual behaviors, violence, and poor impulse control. Social consequences can be severe, as teens isolate from peers, friends, and family. It can cause legal issues stemming from illicit drug use or linked behaviors. Long-term dependency comes with significant physical risks, with the potential for heart problems, liver damage, and even cancer.
Early intervention is crucial—an untreated substance use disorder can have a wide-reaching impact. If you notice any of these signs in your teen, a conversation can be the first step toward understanding underlying issues, clinical diagnosis, treatment, and healing.
Muir Wood’s Approach to Treatment
Muir Wood treats teen substance use disorders through a dual-diagnosis model, with specialized programs for teens dealing with co-occurring mental health disorders. Our evidence-based treatment for substance use disorders includes cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) and other modalities that teach teens how to identify harmful thought patterns and change their behavior. Our program features:
- Individualized Treatment Plans: Each teen is evaluated by our highly credentialed and experienced staff who develop a plan tailored to their diagnoses and unique needs.
- Family Involvement: Family therapy allows teens and members of the “family system” to heal their relationships and develop strategies for long-term support.
- Experiential Therapies: New activities and creative expression give teens alternative ways to process their feelings and experiences.
Residential programs are gender-separate for added social comfort and effectiveness. Teens support and learn from their peers, helping each other navigate healing. In addition to therapeutic care, our on-site staff provides medical care, nutritious meals, and academic support for continuity with home schools. A safe, compassionate environment allows teens to focus on their recovery without distraction or becoming overwhelmed. We are trusted by parents and professionals alike.
Start Adolescent Substance Use Disorder Treatment Today
With the right support and interventions, substance use is treatable. Drug and alcohol treatment for teens allows them to find sobriety and maintain long-term recovery. Fill out an assessment form or contact us today to speak with Muir Wood.
Frequently Asked Questions
Coverage for teen alcohol treatment or other substance use treatment varies by provider and policy. Verify your insurance coverage. Muir Wood strives to make care as accessible as possible and is an in-network provider with many major insurance carriers. We also work with other insurers on an out-of-network, case-by-case basis.
Drug or alcohol addiction treatment for teens depends on the severity of substance use and dependence. Most programs last for at least a month. At Muir Wood, our program length is tailored to each individual. Average stays are 30-45 days.
After treatment at Muir Wood, teens return home equipped with the tools and skills they learned to support their ongoing recovery. To help ensure lasting success, we also connect families to ongoing support groups, a 12-step teen program, and therapy referrals for continued care.