What is addiction counseling?
Addiction counseling is a specific therapeutic approach that allows you to explore underlying issues that led to substance abuse and addiction, and develop the coping skills and strategies you need to change your behaviors.
The team at EXIS Youth offers addiction counseling services designed specifically for adolescents, including individual, group, and family therapy sessions.
Depending on your child’s specific needs, they may have addiction counseling sessions once a week or more at the beginning of their treatment. As they work through their recovery, the frequency of their appointments may decrease.
All addiction counseling programs are fully customized to address the specific needs of each patient.
What is addiction?
Addiction is a brain disorder that affects the region of your brain that controls decision making, impulsiveness, and judgment.
It causes intense and uncontrollable urges to use a substance or engage in an activity, despite harmful consequences. The continued use of drugs, alcohol, or activities like gambling can cause brain abnormalities to become more severe and increase dependence.
What are the signs my teenager has an addiction?
It’s common for teenagers to try tobacco, alcohol, drugs, or other adult behaviors. Adolescence is a time of self-discovery and trying new things as teenagers piece together who they are.
Like adults, teenagers don’t start to use drugs or alcohol with the intention of becoming addicted. They might be curious or feel pressure to perform better at school.
Some of the signs that your teenager might be struggling with addiction include:
- Changes in friends and social habits
- Decreased academic performance
- Becoming more secretive
- Becoming argumentative or moody
- Increased lying
- Stealing
- Reduced memory
- Obvious signs of intoxication
- Lost interest in previously enjoyed hobbies
- Depressed or anxious behavior
Substance abuse at a young age not only increases their risk of addiction later in life, but it interferes with their mental and cognitive development. This can have a lasting impact on their memory, judgment, and decision-making skills.
What should I do if I think my teenager has a substance abuse disorder?
Even at the best of times, teenagers’ moods and behaviors are sometimes challenging to interpret. If you can, talk to them about their behavior in a non-confrontational way, and don’t be afraid to ask for help.
The team at EXIS Youth has extensive experience helping teenagers and their families cope with substance abuse and addiction.
Call EXIS Youth today for customized adolescent addiction counseling services.
