Helping Your Addicted Teen in Central Florida
Addicted teen and the challenges they are faced with. The reality that you have and addicted teen that is struggling with addiction is one of the hardest things a parent can do. Questions as to how it happened, who to blame and why it’s happening can overwhelm you. However, your focus shouldn’t be on how it happened but what you can do to help moving forward.
Addiction Is Not a Life Sentence
for the addicted Teen.
Being addicted as a teen isn’t a life sentence, and Central Florida offers plenty of options for teen rehab.
Give Them Someone to Talk To:
Teens turn to drugs and alcohol because they need a way to deal with pain. This could be physical pain from an injury, emotional pain from a break-up, psychological pain from depression or an undiagnosed mental disorder.
Professional therapy allows teens to express their pain to someone who won’t judge them. Therapists are also trained to recognize the warning signs of mental disorders that may be contributing to your teen’s drug use.
Finding a therapist is a hard process, especially if you’ve never looked before. Friends and family can give recommendations, you can search online or you can ask your insurance provider for therapists in your provider network.
Addiction Is A Family Matter
not Just for the Addicted Teen
Don’t discount the importance of family therapy. A lack of understanding between you and your teen could be part of the problem. If the therapist recommends it, have some sessions between the three of you to work on ways communicate better.
Keep Teens Busy
Studies show active teens abuse drugs and alcohol less than teens who are bored and unfulfilled. Keep your teen busy by looking for local organizations that specialize in their interests. Options are available for teens in a variety of activities:
- Creative teens: Teens with a creative edge can learn to fine-tune their craft by taking classes with local professionals. Artists can refine their painting or drawing skills at The Art Room in Windermere. If teens enjoy the stage more than the canvas, then youth acting at the Orlando Shakespeare Theater might be for them. The Central Florida Vocal Arts in Winter Park teaches teens the proper techniques to harness their voice.
- Athletic Teens: Teens who want to play sports outside of their school can look to join a youth athletics league. Leagues are offered across Orange County in sports like baseball, lacrosse and even skateboarding.
- Philanthropic Teens: Volunteering is a great way for teens to help themselves by helping others. Plenty of opportunities around Central Florida can be found online.
Addicted Teen?
Find a Treatment Facility
Teens are very hesitant to enter a treatment facility. While a facility may be the best way for your teen to get off their substance, it is often seen as a last resort for some parents. However, if your teen’s addiction is negatively affecting their lives, such as causing academic problems or physical harm, then a stay at an inpatient facility may be what’s best for them.
The Next Generation Village in Sebring, Florida, specializes in teen rehabilitation. Here, healing can happen with people their own age. Most teen-centric facilities keep education at the forefront, so they can keep up with their studies while overcoming addiction.
When your teen is suffering from addiction, getting them healthy is your number one priority. Options outside of a formal treatment facility can help. Centers for teens are available if you choose to pursue residential treatment. Recovery is possible. Millions of formerly addicted teens go on to live healthy, happy lives. With your help, your teen can be one of them.
