Addiction Addiction Legal and illegal substances can both do damage Not a Harmless Rite of Passage Drugs and alcohol use can go from casual to critical before you know it. And substances aren’t just for parties. Many teens use them to self-medicate, trying to deal with pain from trauma or manage the symptoms of undiagnosed mental health conditions. In young people, it may take parents, friends, or loved ones to realize that something doesn’t seem right. But admitting there’s an issue is the first step, and the sooner you reach out for help, the sooner the recovery process can begin. Alcohol Addiction Alcohol may not be legal for teens, but it’s still widely consumed. Seen as harmless by many because it’s not a “hard” drug, alcohol abuse causes a host of health issues and lowers inhibitions, increasing the risk of being victimized. Drug Addiction From borrowing a friend’s prescription to popping a pill to “take the edge off,” experimenting with friends during a night of partying, or using drugs to dull unwanted feelings, no one starts out thinking they’ll develop a full-blown addiction. Other Addictions You can be addicted far more than just drugs or alcohol. An overuse or dependence on anything can turn unhealthy, whether it’s social media, video games, online porn, gambling, or other behaviors that are leading to negative consequences. Featured Article Rainbow Fentanyl: How One Pill Can Kill What is rainbow fentanyl? These colorful new pills that contain illicitly-produced fentanyl can be lethal in a single dose. The bright colors make rainbow fentanyl look like candy, which makes it even more dangerous, given that it is more likely to appeal to younger children and teens or be mistaken for something sweet.Read Article The Future Starts Now Our admissions specialists are skilled at helping potential patients, loved ones, and referring professionals find the right treatment fit. A simple call can get the process started. Learn More
