Teen addiction doesn’t happen in isolation—it often masks deeper struggles, like anxiety, depression, or trauma. However, with the right support, recovery is possible. At OHCAW, we offer compassionate, evidence-based treatment designed to help teens overcome addiction, address underlying issues, and build the foundation for a healthier, brighter future.
Why Do Teens Struggle with Addiction?
Teen addiction often stems from a mix of biological, psychological, and social factors. Adolescence is a time of rapid growth and change, which can leave teens more vulnerable to experimenting with substances. Common reasons include:
- Coping with mental health challenges
- Peer pressure and social influences
- Underlying genetic factors
- Emotional and developmental stress
Alcohol, recreational drugs like marijuana, or even prescription medications can become a way for teens to cope with these pressures—but with the right help, they can learn healthier ways to manage life’s challenges.
Signs of Substance Use in Teens
It can be difficult to tell whether your teen is experimenting or struggling with a deeper issue. Knowing the signs of substance use disorder can help you take action early. Look for:
- Behavioral changes – Isolation, mood swings, or secrecy
- Academic struggles – Falling grades, skipping school, or lack of focus
- Physical symptoms – Changes in sleep patterns, appetite, or appearance
- Social changes – New friend groups, distancing from family, or loss of interest in hobbies
- Risk-taking behaviors – Engaging in unsafe activities or breaking rules more frequently
If you’ve noticed these signs, your teen may need more support than you can provide on your own.
Treating the Whole Teen
Treating substance use requires more than addressing the behavior itself. That’s why we specialize in caring for teens with co-occurring disorders, focusing on both the addiction and the mental health issues that fuel it.
Our care combines evidence-based therapies with holistic practices to help teens not only recover but also build resilience and life skills. Therapy focuses on equipping teens to manage stress, navigate peer pressures, and respond to challenges with healthier coping mechanisms. Alongside individual and group therapy, we incorporate mindfulness and meditative practices to foster emotional regulation and self-awareness.
Families play an essential role in the recovery process. We involve parents and caregivers throughout treatment, helping them rebuild trust, strengthen communication, and create a supportive environment at home. This partnership is crucial to sustaining progress and providing a foundation for long-term recovery.
