Rehab for Teens: How to Know if Your Child Needs Rehab

Worried that your teen may need rehab? Read on to learn more about rehab for teens and what symptoms your teen may be experiencing.

Rehab for Teens

Article Contents

Signs That Your Teen May Need Rehab

Teenage substance misuse and mental health problems are difficult to solve without access to rehabilitation services. Identifying the signs that your teen may need rehab is crucial in getting them the help they need. This article discusses the importance of rehab for teens, warning signs that they may need it, and strategies for getting your teen the help they require.

One of the most obvious signs that a teen may need rehab is a change in their behavior. Teens struggling with substance abuse or mental health issues may become more irritable, anxious, or depressed. Some other signs that your child may benefit from rehab for teens include:1

Changes in Behavior or Attitude

Teens who need rehab may display sudden changes in their behavior or attitude, such as becoming withdrawn, angry, or secretive. They may also become more isolated and have difficulty connecting with family and friends. These changes can be a sign that the teen is struggling with underlying emotional or behavioral issues that need to be addressed in rehab.

Decline in Academic Performance

Teens who are struggling with substance abuse or other issues may experience a decline in their academic performance. This can manifest as poor grades, skipping school, or losing interest in their studies. Rehabilitation can help teens improve their academic performance by addressing the underlying issues that may be impacting their ability to focus and learn.

Risky or Dangerous Behavior

Teens may also engage in risky or dangerous behavior, such as drug or alcohol experimentation, criminal activity, or self-harm. Rehabilitation can provide teens with the tools and support they need to overcome these behaviors and make healthier choices.

Physical or Emotional Distress

Teens who need rehab may display signs of physical or emotional distress, such as changes in weight, insomnia, neglecting personal hygiene, or depression. Additionally, teens who are struggling with addiction may have bloodshot eyes, slurred speech, or other physical symptoms of substance abuse. Rehabilitation can help teens address these issues and improve their overall physical and emotional well-being.

Difficulty in Maintaining Healthy Relationships

Teens and young people who are struggling with addiction or other issues may have difficulty maintaining healthy relationships. Rehabilitation can help teens improve their communication and interaction skills while helping them learn how to build and maintain healthy relationships with family, friends, and romantic partners. Additionally, rehab can help them understand the impact of their behavior on others and develop empathy.

It’s important to note that not all teens who exhibit these signs have a substance abuse disorder, but it’s worth investigating and taking appropriate actions if you see this behavior in your child.

How to Talk About Rehab for Teens With Your Child

If you suspect your teen may need rehab, taking action is important. The first step is to talk to your teen and express any concerns you may have. It’s important to approach the conversation with empathy and understanding rather than with anger or blame. Let them know that you love them and that you are there to support them.
It’s also important to seek professional help. A therapist or counselor can help your teen to address their addiction and develop healthy coping mechanisms. They can also support you and your family as you navigate this difficult time.

Choosing the Perfect Rehab Center For Your Teen

Several types of rehab treatment programs are available for teens, including inpatient, outpatient, and residential programs. Inpatient programs provide around-the-clock care and treatment, while outpatient programs allow teens to live at home and attend treatment on a regular basis. Residential programs, also known as “live-in” programs, provide a structured and supportive environment for teens to focus on their therapy sessions for recovery.

Examples of Rehab for Teens

Here are a few examples of the types of rehab options that are available specifically for teens in California:2

  • Inpatient Rehab: This type of rehab is often recommended for teens who have a more serious substance abuse disorder or have struggled with relapsing.
  • Residential Rehab: These programs provide a live-in treatment environment but also offer more freedom than inpatient. Residential rehab programs often include a mix of therapy, counseling, and other activities to help teens achieve recovery.
  • Outpatient Rehab: These programs provide treatment on a part-time basis, allowing adolescents to remain at home and continue their normal activities while receiving assistance and support. 
  • Specialized Treatment: These programs often have specialized staff and treatment methodologies that are tailored to the specific needs of teens and their developmental stages.
  • Therapeutic Boarding Schools: These are schools that provide academic education with treatment for addiction and mental health issues
  • Adventure Therapy: Outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and rock climbing are often part of rehab for teens. These activities can help teens learn new skills, feel better about themselves, and be healthier overall.3

Rehab for Teens in California: How Does it Work?

Rehab for teens typically starts with an initial treatment plan to determine the specific needs and level of care required. The process may include a detoxification process to help the teen safely withdraw from drugs or alcohol, followed by therapy and counseling sessions, educational classes and workshops, and participation in support groups.

A plan for aftercare and follow-up treatment is developed as your child nears the end of the rehab for teens program. Family members and loved ones are usually involved in the treatment process, and facilities should have licensed and trained staff that can provide specialized care for teens.

The overall goal is to provide the right evidence-based treatment options so that each teenager achieves a long-term recovery.

Average Duration of Rehab for Teens Treatments

The length of time that it takes for a teen to complete rehab or addiction treatment can vary depending on a number of factors, including the severity of their addiction or mental health issue, the type of treatment they are receiving, and their individual progress in recovery.

In general, inpatient rehab for teens typically lasts between 30 and 90 days. Residential rehab programs tend to be longer, lasting between three to six months. Outpatient rehab programs can last anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on the individual’s needs.4

What Do Teens Do In Rehab Centers?

During the time that your child is in rehab for teens, they will be participating in a variety of treatment activities and therapies, such as individual and group counseling, therapy sessions, support groups, and educational classes.

These activities are designed to help teens understand their addiction or mental health issues, learn new coping skills, and develop a plan for staying sober or maintaining their mental health in the long-term.

Post Rehab for Teens Support

Taking care of your teenager after rehab is an important part of ensuring long-term recovery. Here are a few steps you can take to support your teen after rehab:
  • Aftercare and follow-up treatment are crucial for long-term success: Make sure your teen attends therapy sessions, support groups, or other forms of treatment as recommended by their rehab facility.
  • Create a home environment that is free of risks and temptations: This may include removing any substances that could harm your teen, along with ensuring that they have healthy food and a comfortable place to sleep.
  • Maintain open communication with your teen and check in on them regularly: Listen to them and encourage them to talk about their feelings and experiences.
  • Encourage your teen to talk about their feelings and offer support when needed: Let them know that you are there for them and that you believe in their ability to recover.
  • Create a structured routine for your teen to help them stay on track: This may include setting daily routines to help them establish a sense of normalcy.
  • Recovery is not a one-time event, and it takes time and effort: Be patient and understand that your teen may have setbacks or relapses. 

Allow Experienced Experts at Iris Healing® to Guide You Through Aftercare and Sustainable Recovery

If you are considering rehab for teens, or have a teenager who has successfully completed rehabilitation, know that you are not alone as you walk through your continued recovery journey. Investing in healthy aftercare can completely transform you or your loved ones’ extended wellness. Professional guidance is not something to be ashamed of, and can instead instill sustainable confidence, coping mechanisms, and considerable value to everything already learned in treatment.
rehab for teens

Reach Out to Iris Healing® Today for Rehab for Teens

Rehab for teens is essential to addressing adolescent substance abuse and mental health issues. Identifying the signs that your teen needs rehab is crucial in getting them the help they need. If you suspect your teen may need rehab, it’s important to take action by talking to your teen, seeking professional help, and considering rehab options. Remember that recovery is a journey and ongoing support is essential for lasting change.

Iris Healing® offers both holistic and evidence-based therapies that can help your teen work through their substance abuse disorder and heal. We also have family therapy so that you can be part of their journey every step of the way if needed. Reaching out for help is often the most difficult step, but we can answer any questions you may have and will create a personalized treatment plan for your teen.

Related Content