Substance abuse is a serious concern, no matter the age of the substance user in question. Luckily, teenage substance abusers often have the benefit of caring family members who can help them get the help they need to recover. Substance abuse clinics for adolescents can provide inpatient and outpatient care for teenagers who are hooked on drugs and alcohol. Here are some methods of substance abuse treatment that are effective at helping teenagers:

1. Reward-Based Treatment

Adolescents are often particularly motivated by rewards. Reward-seeking behavior is often a factor that causes teenagers to develop substance abuse problems in the first place. Fortunately, this trait can also be applied toward recovery. In reward-based treatments, teenagers earn privileges and prizes by cooperating with the treatment program. As teens progress through the program and improve, they will have greater access to things they enjoy.

2. Motivational Treatment

Motivational treatment is a type of addiction therapy that focuses on helping teens develop their own reasons for seeking sobriety. People who are committed to recovering from their addictions are more likely to stick with treatment and avoid relapsing over time. Motivation-based treatments are usually integrated into individual addiction counseling. This type of treatment can be beneficial for teenagers, whether they're pursuing inpatient or outpatient treatment. It's especially helpful for adolescents who are initially reluctant to undergo treatment.

3. Group Therapy

Group therapy is one type of treatment that can help teenagers recover from their addiction without a sense of isolation. In group therapy, teens with substance abuse problems can discuss their feelings and struggles with other adolescents with similar problems. A therapist will be present for group therapy sessions to ensure that each session remains appropriate and on-topic. Speaking to peers can help teens manage their addictions and learn from others.

4. Family Therapy

Family therapy can offer great results for teen substance abusers and their families. This type of therapy recognizes that teenagers rely on their families for love, support, and physical care. Family therapy strives to help the family unit as a whole, which is often affected by the drug use of any one member. Family therapy can be short-term and solution-focused, in which case the emphasis will be on supporting your teenager through their journey to sobriety. Family therapy can also be continued long-term. Long-term family therapy can be used to address unhealthy family dynamics and mental health concerns that may have contributed to your teen's substance use in the first place.

Reach out to a teen substance abuse treatment clinic near you to learn more.