Understanding Teenage Opiate Abuse
Teenage opiate use has been rising steadily since the late 90s. This problem can affect teens from all kinds of backgrounds, and many families may not realize their teen is experimenting with heroin or prescription opioids until it becomes a serious concern.
The truth is that opiate addiction is a leading cause of drug overdose in the United States, regardless of social class, age, or location. Today, more teens are seeking help through adolescent opiate abuse treatment programs to reclaim their health and future.
While this can be scary for parents who suspect adolescent drug abuse, Ascend is here to help. Through our adolescent opiate abuse treatment in California, we guide teens toward a healthier body, mind, and future. Learn more about different types of opiates, their side effects, and the signs your child may be struggling.
Types of Opiates
Opiates are no longer the mysterious substance smoked in hidden places. While heroin is still a widely distributed illegal substance, there are many prescription opiates that teens may find, use, and abuse. Some of the most common include:
- Oxycodone (OxyContin & Percocet)
- Hydrocodone (Vicodin)
- Codeine
- Fentanyl
- Morphine
If your teen is experimenting with any of these substances or has developed an addiction, they can benefit from Ascend’s adolescent opiate abuse treatment program. Early intervention is key to preventing serious long-term consequences.
Causes of Teenage Opiate Abuse
The human body has receptors specifically designed to interact with opiates like heroin. Many are clustered within the brain, and when opiates enter the body, they trigger chemical reactions that release natural chemicals signaling pleasure. For many teens, this rush of happiness makes opiates an attractive drug to try.
Teens under pressure from school, social expectations, or peer influences may enjoy the temporary escape that opiates provide. Others may have already experimented with drugs and turn to heroin or pills like OxyContin because they are cheaper or easier to access. Although opiates are highly addictive, an adolescent opiate abuse treatment program can help your teen break the cycle and build a strong foundation for recovery.
Side Effects of Teenage Opiate Abuse
Whether your teen is misusing prescription opioids or using illicit drugs like heroin, these substances are incredibly habit-forming. As tolerance builds, teens often take larger doses, putting them at serious risk. Common side effects of opioid use include:
- Constipation
- Drowsiness
- Nausea
- Slowed breathing
- Coma
Continued opioid abuse can lead to lasting damage, including:
- Depression
- Psychological and neurological damage from hypoxia
- Increased risk of fractures
- Sleep-disordered breathing
- Hormonal imbalances
- Cardiovascular risks
- Immune system suppression
- Overdose
In order to help your teen avoid these harmful effects of addiction, find opiate abuse treatment for teens at Ascend. Lasting recovery is possible through professional help from our expert team.
Does Your Teen Need Adolescent Opiate Addiction Treatment?
Opiate abuse isn’t invisible. Some signs your teen may need help include:
- Behavioral changes
- Social withdrawal
- Asking for or stealing money
- Changes in speech patterns
- Falling asleep randomly (nodding off)
- Weight loss
- Suppressed appetite
- Small pupils
If you recognize any of these signs, don’t wait. Contact Ascend about our opiate abuse treatment for teens in California today.
Opiate Abuse Treatment for Teens at Ascend
At Ascend, our mission is simple: support teens in building healthier futures. Through personalized assessments and treatment plans, we help each teen explore the underlying reasons behind their substance use in a safe, compassionate environment.
We strongly emphasize family therapy and dual diagnosis care, offering comprehensive treatment in California. Our adolescent opiate abuse treatment program gives teens the tools they need to overcome addiction and rediscover their potential. To take the first step, reach out to our admissions specialists at 310.388.3713.
FAQ
1. What makes Ascend’s adolescent opiate abuse treatment program different?
Ascend focuses on personalized care, offering individualized therapy plans, family support, and dual diagnosis treatment. Our team addresses both substance use and underlying emotional challenges to create lasting recovery for teens.
2. How do I know if my teen needs opiate abuse treatment for teens?
Signs can include mood swings, withdrawing from family, missing school, sudden weight loss, or physical symptoms like small pupils and drowsiness. If you notice any combination of these, seeking professional support through an adolescent opiate abuse treatment program can make a big difference.
3. Does Ascend offer treatment for teens who have co-occurring mental health issues?
Yes! Ascend’s programs are designed to address both substance use and mental health challenges. Many teens struggling with opiate abuse also face anxiety, depression, or trauma. Our integrated approach helps treat the whole person.
4. How soon can my teen start opiate abuse treatment?
We know that time matters. After an initial call with our admissions team, we can quickly assess your teen’s needs and find the right placement within our opiate abuse treatment program in California. If we can’t take your child in immediately, we have a wait list to ensure we reach out when space becomes available.