Supporting your teen Through recovery

Supporting a teenager through recovery from addiction is a complex and multifaceted process that requires understanding, patience, and proactive involvement. At Mesquite Treatment Center, we emphasize a comprehensive approach that incorporates education, structured support, family involvement, and healthy activities to facilitate recovery.

Understanding Teen Addiction

Addiction in teens can stem from many factors, including genetic predisposition, environmental influences, mental health issues, among many others. Understanding these underlying causes is crucial for effective support and effective intervention that leads to a lasting recovery. Recognizing the signs of substance use, such as changes in behavior, mood swings, and shifts in social circles, can help parents and tutors identify issues early and seek appropriate guidance and support.

The Role of Family in Recovery

Family involvement is pivotal in a teen’s recovery journey. Studies have shown that when parents actively participate in their child’s rehabilitation, the chances of successful recovery significantly increase. Engaging in family therapy sessions and support groups can equip parents with the knowledge and skills needed to provide the best possible support​. At Mesquite treatment center, our residents see their parents once a week. Allowing for time to catch up and offer ongoing support. Parents here also learn crucial skills to maintain sobriety and recovery in the home such as: mutual respect, boundaries, structure, etc.

Creating a Structured Environment

Maintaining a structured and supportive home environment is essential for recovery, especially in teens. At Mesquite Treatment Center, we encourage parents to establish consistent routines and clear expectations.

A stable environment can help your child feel secure and reduces the chaos that can lead to relapse. This structure extends to academic pursuits, as we facilitate a regular school day with online courses, ensuring that residents keep up with their credits and continue their educational progress without interruption​. It is important that a reliable and predictable structured is maintained post-recovery.

Some factors that can help to create this new environment could be:

• Clear Expectations - Set clear boundaries and expectations regarding curfews, chores, and social activities. Discuss these expectations openly with your teen to ensure they understand the rules and the consequences of not following them. This helps establish a sense of accountability and responsibility.
• Academics - Maintaining academic progress is an integral part of a structured environment. Encourage your teen to stay engaged with their schoolwork through online courses or regular school attendance. Have conversations about your expectations regarding their academic performance and provide support to help them meet these goals.
• Consistent Routines - Establish daily routines that include specific times for meals, homework, leisure activities, and bedtime. Consistency in daily schedules helps create a sense of normalcy and stability, which can be comforting for teens in recovery. Routines also help manage time effectively and reduce idle moments that could lead to temptation.
• Healthy Activities - Incorporate healthy and constructive activities into your teen’s daily routine. Encourage participation in hobbies such as sports, arts, music therapy, and outdoor activities like fishing or grounding. These activities not only keep your teen engaged but also promote physical and emotional well-being, providing a positive outlet for stress.
• Open Communication - Foster an environment of open and honest communication. Encourage your teen to express their thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment. Remember to listen to their thoughts and struggles, and regularly check in with them about their progress, challenges, and any support they might need. This helps build trust and ensures that any issues can be addressed promptly

Patience and Positivity

Recovery is a journey filled with ups and downs. It’s essential for parents to remain patient and maintain a positive attitude, even when setbacks occur.

Celebrate small victories and progress, reinforcing your teen’s efforts and resilience. Understanding that relapses are part of the recovery process can help parents stay supportive and encouraging during challenging times.

Conclusion

Supporting a teen through recovery involves a combination of acceptance, education, structured support, healthy activities, effective communication, and unwavering patience. At Mesquite Treatment Center, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive support to both teens and their families, ensuring that every step of the recovery journey is guided by understanding and compassion.

For more guidance during these tough times, contact us!

You may fill out the form under our “Get Help” button at the top, or give us a call at: (956) 428-2100.