Addiction is a growing epidemic affecting every aspect of our lives. Teen girls, in particular, are facing a crisis in substance abuse. The number of teen girls that suffer from drug and alcohol addiction is staggering, and the effects of substance abuse on teen girls can be devastating. Fortunately, there is a growing body of teen girl substance abuse treatment.
At Fort Behavioral Health, we have comprehensive and effective substance abuse programs for teen girls. If you suspect a teen you love is struggling with substance abuse, contact us today online or at 844.332.1807 for more information about teen girl substance abuse treatment.
Teen Girls and the Risk Factors of Substance Abuse
Girls are more likely to experience substance abuse than teen boys and particularly vulnerable to alcohol and heroin dependence. The effects of substance abuse are not only physical. It can also affect their mental health, emotional stability, intimate relationships, and self-esteem.
Teen girls who experience drug or alcohol abuse at an early age are more vulnerable to developing a drug or alcohol dependence later in life and may also have more problems related to this. Many teens use these products to escape problems, like bullying, not getting along with others, growing apart from family members and friends, increased academic pressures, and feeling lonely.
Warning Signs of Substance Abuse in Teen Girls
Substance abuse can also be a life-threatening condition for teens and young adults.
For teenagers, substance abuse can take many forms, including alcohol or marijuana, cocaine or heroin, prescription drugs such as Adderall or Ritalin, and opiates such as Vicodin. Teen substance abuse and addiction do not discriminate between whether drugs are prescribed or not.
Warning signs that a teen girl may need substance abuse treatment include that she has:
- Experienced withdrawal symptoms, including headaches, nausea, and vomiting
- Lost interest in school due to substance abuse or dependence
- Required trips to the emergency room due to withdrawal symptoms
- Felt pressured by peers who see her use of illegal drugs as normal behavior
- Refilled prescription drugs more often than necessary
- Lost interest in activities and people she used to enjoy
How to Help a Teen Girl Struggling with Substance Abuse
Teens are among the most vulnerable in today’s society. In addition to the rollercoaster of cognitive and physical development they’re experiencing, they have to deal with an increasing amount of peer pressure due to the prevalence of social media. Peer pressure is an intense challenge for any adolescent girl, whether in their twenties, teen years, or pre-teen years. Aside from peer pressure, today’s teens have more demands on their time, energy, attention, and other resources.
Substance use is a complicated problem that affects youth of all ages and races. However, many teens struggling with substance abuse have not been able to find the help they need because they do not know where to turn for treatment. Many things can indicate a teen girl needs mental health treatment, but one of the most common symptoms is substance abuse. If this is the case, she may be having trouble making healthy choices and developing good habits in her life. Don’t wait for the teen you love to ask for help if you notice these or other signs of substance abuse. Reach out to Fort Behavioral Health today.
Overcome the Effects of Substance Abuse at Fort Behavioral Health
At Fort Behavioral Health, we have what it takes to help you and the teen you love to navigate through substance abuse to well-being. We offer substance abuse treatment programs specially designed for teen girls. Each treatment plan is customized to fit the specific needs of the individual, and our options include both residential and outpatient programs.
For more about our teen substance abuse resources, diverse team of experienced professionals, and well-appointed facilities, contact Fort Behavioral Health by calling 844.332.1807 or filling out our online contact form.
