Designer drugs, also known as club drugs, are commonly abused among teenagers who like to party. They’re easily accessible, and a number of the purchased products are sold online and delivered in discreet packaging to your front door. Some designer drugs are even sold legally, such as Spice and K2. While teens take these drugs to enhance their party experiences, some designer drugs cause such intense symptoms so quickly that they can be fatal.
At Ascend, our designer drug abuse treatment program is built to help you understand what your teen is going through and how these substances affect their brain and behavior. Learn more about our substance use program and how we support lasting recovery.
Causes of Teenage Designer Drug Abuse
There are several common reasons why your teen may be drawn to this type of drug and may need a club drug rehab for teens to find relief. Many designer drugs cause teens to feel powerful or create an ultra-relaxed sensation, allowing them to feel more confident in social situations. Certain types of club drugs increase sensations of affection and happiness, providing teens with a more enjoyable party experience they wouldn’t get while sober.
Typically, designer drugs are taken in social settings and in the company of friends, which can contribute to additional engagement in high-risk behavior. If you want to help your child who may already be addicted, a designer drug abuse treatment program at Empress House can provide the structure and support they need to heal.
Types of Designer Drugs
Club drugs are categorized as psychoactive substances that act upon the central nervous system. To achieve their effects, they can completely change a person’s behavior, awareness, and mood. Like many other types of drugs, club drugs have nicknames that vary by region. Some of the most common types of designer drugs include:
- Ecstasy / Molly / MDMA
- Acid / LSD
- K / Special K
- G / GHB / Liquid Ecstasy
- Rohypnol / Roofies
In Ascend’s designer drug abuse treatment program, we’re familiar with the effects of these substances and the reasons why your teen might be using them. We explore the root causes of substance use to help teens build healthier coping mechanisms and feel like themselves again.
Signs & Symptoms of Club Drug Abuse
If you think your child may be using designer drugs and could benefit from our club drug rehab for teens, here are some signs and symptoms to look out for:
- Panic attacks
- Sudden changes in friends, personality, or appearance
- Declining academic performance
- Loss of interest in hobbies
- Change in sleep patterns
- Unexplained need for money or theft
- Secrecy
- Pinpointed or dilated pupils
- Slurred speech or drowsiness
- Sudden weight loss
- Defiance or extreme mood changes
Because many of these drugs don’t have a distinct smell, it can be hard for parents to detect use early on.
Our Designer Drug Rehab for Teens
At Ascend, we want to ensure that our designer drug abuse treatment program is as effective and supportive as possible. We meet teens where they are, personalize every aspect of their care, and create a safe space where they feel seen and valued. Through a variety of evidence-based and experiential therapies, our club drug rehab for teens helps clients work through the emotional roots of substance use while learning skills to stay grounded and connected.
If your teen is struggling with designer drug use, there is hope. Reach out to Ascend Healthcare today at 310.388.3713 to learn how we can help.
FAQ
What is a designer drug abuse treatment program?
A designer drug abuse treatment program is tailored to help teens who are misusing synthetic or club drugs like ecstasy, k, LSD, or GHB. These programs offer more than just detox; they focus on emotional healing, skill-building, and creating a healthier path forward.
When should families consider a residential program for teens?
If your teen’s behavior has changed, like withdrawing from family, struggling in school, staying out late, or showing signs of anxiety or paranoia, it may be time to explore professional support. A club drug rehab for teens offers a safe space to step away from harmful patterns and start healing with the guidance of licensed professionals.
What makes club drugs so risky for teens?
Club drugs often seem fun or harmless at first, but their effects can be unpredictable and dangerous, especially for teens. These substances are often taken in party settings, making it harder to gauge safety or dosage. Our designer drug abuse treatment program helps teens understand the real risks and develop better ways to cope with stress, boredom, or peer pressure.
How does Ascend support recovery from designer drug abuse?
Ascend’s approach to treating designer drug use is holistic. We combine individual therapy, family involvement, and creative outlets like art and music to help teens rebuild self-worth and resilience. Our program isn’t just about stopping substance use – it’s about giving teens the tools and confidence to create lasting change.