There are California drug treatment programs for people of almost any age or affliction. But few are as crucial as those designed to help troubled teens overcome addiction to drugs and alcohol. Adolescent substance abuse is a growing problem, not only in California, but throughout the country as well. As parents continue to work more hours, and become divorced at a higher rate, their children are spending more time unsupervised than ever before. And these idle hours are the breeding ground for teen drug and alcohol addiction.

How to Know if a Family Member Requires Teen Alcohol and Drug Services

There are several tell-tale warning signs that every parent should be aware of where it comes to drug abuse. The following behaviors and actions often reveal that a young person has become involved with drugs or alcohol.

• Hanging out with a new set of friends. Many young people who begin using alcohol or drugs will forgo existing friendships in order to start hanging out with a new crowd that is more involved with substance abuse.
• Decrease in involvement in school activities or hobbies. Interest in sports, hobbies or other activities that the teen once found enjoyable and fulfilling will now fall by the wayside in favor of the pursuit of drugs or alcohol.
• Change in sleep habits. Many young people taking drugs will begin staying up very late and may not wake up until late the next day.
• Change in school performance. Watch for a drop off in grades or poor attendance. These are classic signs of a teenager involved with substance abuse.
• Moodiness and sudden changes in behavior. Teenagers can be moody or sullen by nature, so look for symptoms of depression in kids where none were previously exhibited.
• Finding drug paraphernalia or alcohol. Obviously, the moment a parent finds any drinking or drug paraphernalia in a teen’s room, clothes or car, it is time to deal with the situation. Those parents who wait until the problem gets worse often find the situation has spiraled out of control before they know it.

Finding Help for Teens

The most important factor in getting help for adolescent addiction in California is working with a program that understands the special needs of young people. These rehab programs understand many of challenges associated with treating troubled teens, including:

• Heavy resistance. More than almost any other group, teenagers enter rehab with a tremendous amount of resistance. The age is rebellious by nature, and most young people do not want anyone, especially adults, interfering in their lives.
• Psychological issues. The teenage years are filled with self-esteem and self-image issues. When drugs or alcohol are added into the mix it can create a high risk for suicide and other serious problems.

Working With the Entire Family

In order to help adolescents overcome addiction and substance abuse, California alcohol and drug services for teens work with the entire family to regain trust, form stronger bonds and work together as a unit to support and love the child who has the problem. Visit www.californiadrgrehabs.com to find an outstanding teen alcohol or drug treatment center in California.