By: Doug Hall, RN, BSN,
Nurse Director - Adolescent Unit
Not surprisingly,
there are some adolescents that are at a higher risk for chemical dependency
then others. These at-risk teens tend share several common characteristics.
They are often children of substance abusers, adolescents with mental health
issues, depressed or suicidal teens, or victims of physical, psychological or
sexual abuse. Cultural or social norms can also influence teens to experiment
and/or overuse drugs and alcohol.
Substance
abuse treatment programs most commonly vary based on their length of stay. Many inpatient programs are long term to help
manage treatment and help with the detoxification process. Long term treatment programs
typically provide group meetings, psychosocial support systems and drug free
supervision with tests. Family support is absolutely key to the success of a patient
that is struggling with a chemical dependency. Outpatient programs also feature
groups, friend/family support and individual psychotherapy.
