Alcohol and drug use in teenagers increases the risk of later substance use disorders and mental, physical, and neurocognitive issues. Treating teen substance use early can be critical in reducing harmful behaviors and outcomes.
Effective interventions are available for teens with varying severities of substance use issues, including inpatient and outpatient treatment programs.
- Substance use treatment options for teens include a range of inpatient and outpatient treatment programs, often involving various psychosocial interventions.
- Adolescent substance use issues can be complex and often require extensive and long-term intervention, including ongoing aftercare following a treatment program.
- Families can play a crucial role in teen recovery and can help improve outcomes, provide strong support networks, and aid in the development and maintenance of necessary recovery skills and strategies.

Understanding teen rehab
Substance use is common among adolescents, and the adolescent period is a time of high risk for the development of substance use disorders. Alcohol and drug use in teenage years is found to increase the likelihood of substance abuse and dependence, as well as various other psychological, physical, social, and academic issues. [1]
Therefore, addressing substance use in teenagers is crucial in helping to prevent serious issues from developing or worsening. Different approaches to treatment are available, from brief interventions to inpatient rehabilitation services.
Interventions that are implemented in the early stages of substance use can help prevent dependence, while more intensive services can be used to effectively reduce and treat severe substance use issues among adolescents. [2]
Effects of addiction in teenagers
Teenagers are particularly vulnerable to the effects of addiction due to the critical stage of brain development they are undergoing. The adolescent brain, especially the prefrontal cortex responsible for decision-making and impulse control, is still maturing. Substance use during this formative period can interfere with cognitive development, emotional regulation, and academic performance, leaving long-lasting effects on their mental and physical health.
Signs your teen may need drug rehab
Teenagers may exhibit some of the following warning signs if they are using substances and require professional intervention and rehab:
- Changes in mood and behavior: Harmful drug use can contribute to significant emotional and behavioral changes, including depression, anxiety, stress, paranoia, aggression, secrecy, dishonesty, or a sudden change in friendship groups or hobbies.
- Decline in academic performance: Teens frequently using substances may experience a drop in their grades or school attendance, as drugs can impact concentration and motivation.
- Physical changes: Some physical changes that might indicate substance use include a disheveled appearance, red or sunken eyes, skin changes (such as track marks), or sudden weight changes.
Substance use treatment approaches for young people
Various substance use disorder programs and approaches are available for young people, which vary in intensity depending on the needs of the individual. This can include: [1][2][3]
- Inpatient rehabilitation programs: Inpatient or residential treatment involves staying at a facility that provides 24-hour care and support. This type of treatment is best suited to teens with severe substance use issues, particularly those who have not had success with other treatments or have complex issues regarding home environments, mental health, or medical issues. Inpatient stays can last for a month or more.
- Outpatient programs: Outpatient treatment involves attending sessions for a set number of hours per week, which can vary depending on individual needs. Standard outpatient programs involve up to six hours of intervention per week, intensive outpatient treatment can include up to 20 hours per week, and partial hospitalization can include several hours of treatment daily for five days of the week.
- Behavioral therapies: Behavioral therapies are a key aspect of substance use disorder treatment at any age and can be particularly beneficial for adolescents. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is well-established as an effective treatment for adolescent substance use and can provide skills to manage and improve thoughts, behaviors, and mood that are associated with harmful substance use.
- Family therapies: In many cases, involving the family in treatment is crucial to positive outcomes. This can help improve family relationships and communication, parental monitoring, and safety and support within the home environment.
What to expect from teen rehab programs
Teen rehab programs will often include the family in developing and implementing treatments, alongside interventions that provide the young person with strategies to manage their substance use. [1]
Additionally, programs will include goal setting within treatments, which can be personalized to the individual’s needs and desired outcomes. This will include working toward abstinence, managing underlying issues that contribute to substance use, and developing skills and coping mechanisms to enable recovery. [2]
The success and outcome of treatment will depend on several factors, including the severity of substance use issues, the type of treatment, family or community involvement, and individual needs. Typically, longer treatment programs, good social support, and personalized treatment plans can improve treatment success. [1][4]
Initial assessment and detox
Before commencing treatment, adolescents will be assessed by a professional. This assessment will involve gathering information about past and present substance use behaviors, the impacts of substances on their life and functioning, their physical and mental health history, and any other relevant information about their environment, education, and family. [1]
This can also help inform the implementation of treatments that will be individualized to meet their specific needs. For those with opioid, alcohol, or tobacco use disorders, medications may be used to support detox and withdrawal before commencing psychosocial interventions. [3]
Therapy sessions
Therapeutic interventions form the largest component of adolescent substance abuse treatment. These treatments will be tailored to the needs of the teen and will focus on addressing substance use behaviors, considering underlying trauma and mental health issues, identifying family and environmental concerns, and teaching skills to manage triggers and emotional distress.
Typically, therapy will involve behavioral approaches such as: [1][2]
- CBT: CBT can help recognize and adapt harmful thought and behavior patterns, teach coping strategies, and improve problem-solving.
- Trauma-focused CBT: Trauma-focused CBT involves the same techniques, while it also specifically addresses issues that have developed due to severe trauma.
- Contingency management: Contingency management aims to promote and reinforce healthy behavior changes with rewards, such as prizes or vouchers.
- Motivational interviewing: Motivational interviewing or motivational enhancement therapy helps encourage the teen to engage in treatment by recognizing its potential benefits and setting goals.
Alongside these interventions, adolescents are likely to attend therapy that uses family-based approaches, such as brief strategic family therapy or family behavior therapy. These approaches help the individual and their family members improve their communication, build healthy dynamics, learn problem-solving skills, and work together to manage recovery. [1][4]
Other components of teen rehab
In some cases, medications may be included in the treatment process, if deemed necessary by healthcare professionals. This might include medications to manage withdrawal and promote abstinence or medications prescribed to treat co-occurring mental or physical health issues. [5]
Another key focus of teen rehab will be academic and personal functioning, helping to encourage young people to set and work toward post-treatment goals and healthy lifestyles. [3]
The role of family in teen recovery
Family support can have a significant impact on the success of teen recovery. Where appropriate, the family will often be involved in the development and implementation of treatment plans, therapies, and aftercare. [4]
Involving the family can increase the likelihood of maintaining recovery and abstinence, providing a stable and supportive home environment and continued engagement in treatment. Supportive family networks can be crucial for healthy development in teens, especially in those with substance use issues. Evidence shows improved outcomes in adolescent substance use treatment when family-based models are involved. [2][4]
Aftercare and long-term support
Following a rehab treatment program, it is often beneficial to continue working with professionals to help maintain abstinence and recovery. Many programs offer aftercare support or can refer individuals to appropriate services. This might include continuing to attend therapy sessions or support groups or utilizing specialist educational facilities.
Adolescent substance use issues are often complex and can require long-term treatment to help maintain recovery and prevent relapse. As such, it is also common for treatment programs to include the development of a relapse prevention plan. This can be used to help people recognize and manage their triggers and provide guidance if cravings or temptations occur. [1][3]
Choosing the right rehab for your teenager
The right rehab for teenagers will depend on several factors, including the severity of their substance use issues and their home environments. It might be appropriate to consult with a professional for advice on choosing a treatment program.
Additional factors to consider include:
- If the treatment program treats a specific type of drug use
- If evidence-based treatments are included
- If medications are prescribed
- What type of aftercare is offered
- The qualifications and types of professionals involved
- The location of the program
- The cost of the program