Alcohol is one of the most widely abused substances by teenagers because many parents ignore their symptoms, asa parent comforting their child Alcohol Use Disorder Treatment Program they believe that experimentation with alcohol is a normal part of adolescent development. Unfortunately, teenagers already have difficulty with impulse control, and mixing in alcohol can have deadly results. 

At Ascend Healthcare, we offer a teen alcohol abuse program that teaches adolescents about the dangers of alcohol, encourages them to learn alternative coping techniques, and guides them along the journey to recovery. 

Understanding Alcohol Use Disorders in Teens

Research shows that teens who drink alcohol before age 15 are four times more likely to develop alcohol use disorders. Whether they start drinking alcohol due to peer pressure or to cope with feelings of anxiety or depression, alcohol abuse is dangerous. Some long-term effects of alcohol abuse include:

  • Memory loss and shortened attention span
  • Trouble learning
  • Diminishing gray and white matter in the brain
  • Irregular heart beat
  • Liver fibrosis
  • Alcoholic hepatitis
  • Steatosis (i.e., fatty liver)
  • High blood pressure
  • Stroke
  • Cancer

To help your teen avoid these negative side effects from extended alcohol abuse, discuss the possibility of entering them into a teen alcohol rehab center in California.

Causes of Teenage Alcohol Abuse

Teens are exposed to drinking at home, restaurants, sporting events, and parties. The culture of alcohol is generally more acceptable than other substances, making it easier to find and abuse. This nervous system depressant is an addictive substance, which means users can build up a tolerance over time and if they try to stop drinking, they may experience withdrawal symptoms. 

At Ascend, we recommend that teens who are struggling with significant alcohol abuse undergo medical detox before they begin our teen alcohol abuse program. We then focus on exploring the underlying causes of their alcohol abuse and work to help teens develop healthier habits for the future.

Signs and Symptoms of Alcohol Use Disorder to Look For

The following signs could be indicators that your teen is struggling with an alcohol use disorder:

  • Inability to control alcohol consumption
  • Developed tolerance so more alcohol is needed to have the same effect
  • Drinking alone or hiding drinking from others
  • Neglecting other responsibilities and activities
  • More time spent on consuming alcohol and recovering from its effects
  • Legal, professional, or personal difficulties as a result of alcohol consumption
  • Continued use, despite the problems alcohol-consumption is causing

If you notice any of the above, it may be time to enroll your child in a teen alcohol abuse program.

Ascend Healthcare’s Teen Alcohol Abuse Program 

At Ascend Healthcare, we provide treatment at a safe, supportive teen alcohol rehab center in California through a unique, individual approach. As part of their personalized treatment plan, your teen will participate in a wide-range of evidence-based treatment therapies including mindfulness therapy and 12-step programming.

We also offer teens the opportunity to participate in experiential treatments that include art, music, horticulture, and equine therapies. These can help with emotional expression and symptom relief while helping your child rediscover interests and passions.

Learn More – Contact Ascend Healthcare Today

Ready to learn more about our teen alcohol abuse program, including program specifics, insurance information, and availability in our residential treatment center? Contact Ascend Healthcare today at 310.388.3713 to learn more about our addiction treatment programs.