The differences between the needs of teenagers and adults are obvious, but what are the differences between a residential treatment center for teens and one for adults? Because teenagers’ brains are still in development, special attention must be given during treatment. Many times teenaged addicts and alcoholics are exceptionally rebellious and defiant so they require more attention, work and care than their adult counterparts. A separate residential treatment center for teens provides an environment for recovery that focuses exclusively on their particular needs
But how exactly does a residential treatment center for teensdiffer from adult rehabs?
- Teens learn how to identify themselves.
Teenage addicts and alcoholics often lose their sense of self within their substance dependence. While adults may have a similar problem, most teens don’t get the opportunity to figure out who they are and how they plan to operate in the world before their addiction takes hold. Residential treatment centers for teens foster an environment in which teenagers can learn more about themselves and discover who they are. When provided the proper place to do so, they are able to determine things they are interested in or passionate about, something they aren’t able to do while under the influence.
- Residential treatment centers for teens work on relationships with adults.
Oftentimes, teenage addicts and alcoholics haven’t learned how to properly relate to adults. They may have faced neglect in the home or experienced trauma at the hands of a trusted adult and become suspicious and distrusting. However, as they are still minors, teenagers are somewhat reliant upon adults for a certain degree of support. Through treatment, proper interpersonal and relationship-building skills are taught. Through both group and individual counseling, adolescents learn how to develop a healthy respect for and relationship with adults.
- Teens develop an understanding for the importance of family.
There is an inherent human desire to be loved that some teens may lack. Whether it is a perceived or true need, the absence of the feeling of being loved must be addressed. The importance of family is stressed in residential treatment centers for teens, be it their nuclear family or their chosen family. Everyone deserves to be loved, especially adolescents. Through treatment, teenagers come to understand the necessity of the family unit. Oftentimes treatment centers will work on this through family group or family visitation days. It is important that a teenager is sent to a residential treatment center for teens in order to ensure their specific needs are properly addressed by qualified staff. Provide the proper treatment your teen deserves in order to avoid their continued substance abuse and save them from years of future addiction.
