For most people, the connection between mental health and addiction for teens is undeniable. A teen mental health treatment program can provide the necessary support for teens struggling with poor mental health. Additionally, a teen mental health treatment program can prevent significant, long-term issues related to substance abuse resulting from unchecked mental health concerns.
If a teen you love suffers from mental health challenges, substance abuse, or addiction, don’t wait. Reach out to our professionals who are standing by at Fort Behavioral Health. Contact us by filling out our online form or calling 844.332.1807 to learn more about our treatment options for teens, such as our teen mental health treatment program, in the Fort Worth, TX, area today.
Teenagers Mental Health and Substance Abuse
Many teenagers are unequipped with the tools necessary to manage the barrage of mental health challenges that exist in daily life today. Sometimes mental health struggles can result directly from traumatic experiences. In other cases, brain chemistry simply wreaks havoc. However it begins, a breakdown in mental health can spell lifelong trouble for teenagers if left untreated. Many teenagers turn to substances such as drugs and alcohol, whether pushed by peer pressure or seeking relief from mental pain. Teens struggling to maintain mental well-being are especially vulnerable to developing substance abuse habits.
It can be challenging to tell if your teenager is simply going through the typical phases or suffering in a way that requires attention and treatment.
Some of the key signs that it’s time for intervention include:
- Using alcohol or drugs
- Isolating from friends and loved ones
- Distinct changes in sleeping and eating habits
- Rapidly dropping grades or abandoning beloved activities
- Missing items or cash around the house
- Rapid fluctuation in weight
When in doubt, it’s better to err on the side of caution and seek help for your teen. Teen mental health treatment programs are designed to treat both root causes and side effects such as substance abuse.
The Connection Between Mental Health and Addiction for Teens
It’s one thing to experiment with drugs and alcohol, but when it comes to mental health and substance abuse, the slope becomes treacherously slippery very quickly. Teens who are suffering already when it comes to mental well-being are far more likely to turn to drugs and alcohol to self-medicate. The problem with self-medication, especially in teenagers, is that it can quickly turn into an addiction. The adolescent brain is still developing and has not yet developed defenses against addiction. Teens who have a history of addiction or alcoholism in their families are especially vulnerable to the disease of drug and alcohol addiction.
It is crucial to talk with your teen about the dangers of substance abuse. It is as important to act quickly if you notice the signs and symptoms of declining mental health and substance abuse in your teen.
When intervening, separate the issue from the person. Let your teen know that you love and care for them and that your intention is to help and heal rather than to punish. Most teens turn to substance abuse out of desperation rather than a simple desire to rebel. It is also helpful to seek support for yourself and other family members or guardians.
Explore the Connection Between Mental Health and Addiction for Teens with Fort Behavioral Health
If a teen you love is struggling with mental health or substance abuse issues, don’t hesitate. Reach out to our professionals at Fort Behavioral Health today to learn more and set up an appointment. Our teen mental health treatment programs are designed to treat a variety of disorders as well as addiction. In addition, we offer a full complement of counseling and peer support services for individuals and families. To learn more, contact us by calling 844.332.1807 or completing our online form today.
