What are the Signs of Addiction in Teens?

What are the Signs of Addiction in Teens?
As parents, we do everything we can to keep our teenagers safe. But we can’t protect them forever. The pressures teens face can cause many to turn to drugs and alcohol, and a dependency can form.  The good news is that teens are resilient and may be able to get over an addiction quickly, but it’s crucial to catch it before it’s too late. That’s why parents need to be aware of the signs of addiction in teens. This article will review those signs, so you know what to look out for, and explain how to find teen addiction treatment in your area. 

Why Do Teens Abuse Drugs?

There are a variety of reasons why teens abuse drugs, including: To Minimize Stress: Adolescence comes with its share of stress. Teens are under pressure to look good, fit in, get good grades, and get prepared for the ‘real world.’ Drugs may work to reduce the pressure they are feeling.  Peer Pressure: Teens will likely be invited to parties and social functions where drugs and alcohol flow freely. They may be pressured by their friends to use these substances so they can fit in better with their peers. To Attain a Certain Goal: Teens may take drugs for a specific reason. For example, they may take amphetamines to help them lose weight or get through all-night study sessions. They may turn to opioids to relieve pain or avoid symptoms related to a mental health condition, such as depression and anxiety.  Self-Medication: Some teens may be dealing with mental illnesses such as anxiety and depression. They may not want to let anyone know about their problems due to social stigmas or other reasons. Instead of getting the help they need, they will self-medicate with drugs and alcohol.  To Copy Adults: Teens are more likely to develop dependency issues if their parents abuse drugs. They may see their parents as role models and want to be like them by drinking or doing drugs. They may want to act out against parents that are firmly against drinking. Or they may start using them because it makes them feel more like an adult. 

What are the Signs of Addiction in Teens?

Addiction will look different depending on the type of drug that’s being used, but one thing you may notice is withdrawal symptoms.  If your teen uses drugs regularly, their body will get used to having them in their system. They may get to the point where they are unable to function normally when sober. Their body will begin to experience withdrawal symptoms that are similar to cold and flu symptoms when they are sober. They may also experience confusion, hallucinations, and more.  Other teen addiction signs include the following:
  • Weight loss or weight gain
  • Changes in appetite
  • Mood swings
  • Changes in sleep patterns
  • Lack of self-care
  • Hanging out with different groups or withdrawing from society
  • A lack of interest in the things they once loved
  • Engaging in dangerous or dishonest behavior
  • A decline in schoolwork
  • Unexplained absences at school 

How to Find Teen Treatment Programs in Florida

Getting your teen into a recovery program isn’t easy. It will require getting them to admit they need help and that they must change their ways. But if you find a program tailored to teens, the specialists will take the right approach making the teen feel comfortable with rehab treatment.  There are a variety of rehab centers in Florida, but Adolescent Wellness Academy stands out as it specializes in teen treatment. We know what it takes to reach teens on their level and promote healing.  AWA is a South Florida afterschool program offering a limited disturbance to a teen’s schedule. Teens can go for treatment without taking significant time away from school and friends. We even provide transportation.  We include a variety of therapies using both traditional and modern approaches. We integrate science-based treatments that are proven to be successful in recovery. We work out a customized strategy that is best suited for our patients. Adolescent Wellness Academy can help with our South Florida Teen Treatment services. Teen addiction is not easy to deal with, but being familiar with the signs of teen drug use can help you catch it early on so you can take action before it’s too late.  AWA will provide the tools and resources for teen addiction that bring your teen closer to healing. 

Teen Mental Health Treatment in South Florida – AWA

At Adolescent Wellness Academy, a teen mental health treatment center located in South Florida, we understand the complexities and challenges of guiding our loved ones, especially adolescents, towards recovery from mental health challenges. Recognizing the delicate nature of this journey, we are committed to offering compassionate, specialized care even in situations where individuals may be hesitant to seek help. We are dedicated to providing a supportive environment that fosters healing and growth through our tailored programs:
  • Day Therapeutic Program: A structured daytime treatment offering therapeutic support and education that integrates seamlessly with the adolescent’s daily life.
  • After-School Program: An innovative approach that provides therapeutic activities and supports post-school hours, allowing teens to continue their education while receiving the care they need.
When you join our therapy or afterschool programs, you enter a caring and non-judgmental community. This support network involves teens, their families, peers, and our team. Our team of clinicians, alumni, and other parents are here to offer invaluable assistance. Parent Support Groups (PSG) and assessments ensure that the support is tailored to each family’s needs. Contact us today for more information about teen mental health at 1-866-548-8677 or visit our locations in Miami-Dade and Broward.

Discover how our judgment-free, evidence-based care can support your teen mental health and your family

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Melanie Medrano – Therapist

Melanie has a profound commitment to guiding individuals on their paths to self-discovery and healing. Equipped with a diverse skill set, Melanie has received specialized training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Motivational Interviewing. 

At the heart of Melanie’s therapeutic approach is a desire to provide clients with a safe, nurturing space where they can empower themselves with the tools necessary to navigate life’s complexities. Melanie finds joy in witnessing clients emerge from challenging circumstances, stepping into the light from what once felt like a dark place.  

Cristina Arango – Clinical Supervisor

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Benjamin Ziegler LMFT – Therapist

With a heart for guiding families through challenges and fostering connections, Benjamin is committed to creating a therapeutic space where each family member feels heard, understood, and supported. His genuine enthusiasm for helping families thrive is a driving force in his approach.

Benjamin is highly qualified professional with a Master’s Degree and credentials as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). He also has a certification in narrative therapy, where he skillfully utilizes storytelling to empower individuals and families on their mental health journey, guiding them to reshape their narratives and discover fresh perspectives.  

Celanie Chenet – Therapist

Celanie is a mental health professional with a Master’s Degree and licensure as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC). Celanie is dedicated to providing supportive care through various modalities and has a robust background in trauma-informed care, Living in Balance, and Protective Action Response.

Celanie’s primary modalities include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), with a specialization in Trauma Focused-CBT (TF-CBT), Interpersonal Therapy, and Brief Solution-focused therapy (BSF). With a commitment to helping individuals navigate challenges and achieve positive outcomes, Celanie brings a wealth of expertise and a caring approach to the therapeutic process.   

Michael Panzeca – Program Manager

Michael has +40 years of experience dedicated to the field of mental health and addiction. He has played a crucial role in developing programs for various nationally recognized treatment centers in the US and in the creation of the Adolescent Wellness Academy. Alongside his expertise, Michael adds a touch of creativity and humor to program design, drawing from his side profession as a stand-up comedian.

Michael passionate about working with parents and teens. He connects with them in a deeper level, able to be candid and compassionate at the same time.

Michael is a Certified Addiction Counselor from the International Certification & Reciprocity Consortium. He’s also trained in Gestalt Therapy and has a certification from The Cincinnati Gestalt Institute.  

Dr. Carlos Satulovsky – Medical Director

Dr. Carlos Satulovsky is a board-certified psychiatrist and has over 30 years of experience in the medical field. He graduated from Facultad De Ciencias Medicas/Universidad Nacional. He is affiliated with medical facilities North Shore Medical Center.  

Jenn Jacoby LMHC – Clinical Director

Jenn is a highly qualified mental health professional with a Master’s Degree and credentials as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC). Jenn is not only a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) but also holds certification in Child and Family Studies.

Jenn’s extensive training includes being a Certified Trainer by DJJ for Trauma Responsive and Caring Environment, expertise in Aggression Replacement Training (ART), Impact of Crime, Thinking for a Change, Living in Balance, Cannabis Youth Treatment, Coping with Stress: A CBT Program for Teens with Trauma, Adolescents Coping with Depression, Motivational Interviewing, Protective Action Response, and being a Certified Peer Reviewer for Monitoring and Quality Improvement (MQI).

 In terms of modalities, Jenn is proficient in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT), Solution-focused therapy, Strength-based therapy, Narrative therapy, and Motivational Interviewing. With Jenn’s diverse skill set and commitment to professional development, she brings a comprehensive and compassionate approach to mental health counseling.