Research suggests that as many as one in seven young adults struggles with substance use disorder (SUD). The effects of substance abuse and addiction can be devastating. Prolonged substance use can harm a person’s physical and mental health, relationships, daily functioning, and more.
Substance abuse that begins during adolescence or young adulthood can be especially challenging to overcome. Many young adults who develop SUD require comprehensive treatment programs and ongoing support to recover.
This article will explore what to expect in addiction treatment for young adults. You will learn:
- The connection between young adults and substance abuse
- The most commonly abused substances among young adults
- What happens in a young adult SUD treatment program
- How to determine if you or a loved one requires drug or alcohol abuse treatment
- Where to find a young adult treatment center
If you or a young adult in your life needs help to get or stay sober, you are not alone. Archstone Behavioral Health offers comprehensive addiction and mental health treatment for young adults. Contact our treatment specialists to learn about age or gender-specific treatment or to schedule an intake appointment.
What is a Young Adult Rehab?
Young adult SUD treatment programs offer evidence-based therapy and treatment for people within a certain age group. Treatment programs provide high-quality therapies, mental health care, and other resources. Treatment specialists in these rehab centers have specific training and experience catering to the needs of young adults with SUD.
Young adult treatment programs help people explore and understand the roots of their substance abuse. Instead of simply addressing the physical aspects of addiction, these programs help people identify and treat the behavioral and psychological causes of SUD.
Comprehensive treatment and specialized therapies can help young adults with SUD work toward long-term recovery. Contact the Archstone Behavioral Health specialists to learn more about our programs or to schedule an intake appointment.
Understanding the Link Between Young Adults and Substance Abuse
Young adulthood can be full of joys and challenges. Many young adults struggle with the transition from adolescence into adulthood. For some, substance use or abuse is a significant challenge to overcome.
Some of the most commonly abused substances among young adults include:
- Heroin
- Alcohol
- Marijuana
- Hallucinogenic drugs
- Prescription medication, including opioids
- Cocaine
- MDMA (Ecstasy)
- Inhalants
Teens and young adults may use drugs or alcohol for a variety of reasons. Here are some of the most common reasons young adults engage in substance misuse.
Self-medication
Young adults may self-medicate new or worsening mental health symptoms. They may drink or do drugs to cope with depression or anxiety. Or, they may use addictive substances to manage challenging emotions, like boredom, loneliness, or anger.
Euphoric effects
Young adults may experiment with drugs that cause euphoric effects, including some common club drugs. Drugs causing euphoria, such as ecstasy or opioids, can be highly addictive. Short-term abuse may quickly develop into a dangerous addiction.
Performance enhancement
Some young adults may engage in substance abuse to enhance athletic or academic performance. Stimulant abuse is widespread among young adults who want to maintain focus and energy. People may also use drugs or alcohol to improve social performance or alleviate anxiety.
Peer pressure
Many people associate “peer pressure” with the teenage years. However, young adults may feel pressure to drink or do drugs to fit in with friends or co-workers.
The pressure to engage in substance use can be just as intense during young adulthood as it is during adolescence. This pressure can keep people stuck in a destructive cycle of substance abuse and addiction.
Regardless of why someone starts using them, drug and alcohol abuse can quickly spiral into a life-threatening addiction. Seek treatment as soon as you recognize the signs of substance abuse. Contact the Archstone Behavioral Health specialists to learn more about substance abuse or to explore your treatment options.
What to Expect in a Young Adult Rehab Program
Young adult drug rehab programs provide structure, support, treatment, and community for people with SUD. There are several levels of rehab care, including:
- Inpatient or residential treatment programs
- Partial hospitalization programs (PHP)
- Intensive outpatient programs (IOP)
- Outpatient rehab
- Aftercare programs
Many centers offer multiple levels of treatment to meet each person’s needs at every stage of their recovery.
Each person follows a tailored treatment plan. Addiction treatment plans might include:
- Assessments and screenings
- Medically-supported detox programs
- Medication management
- Behavioral therapies
- Individual, family, and group therapy
- Psychoeducation about addiction, recovery, coping skills, and more
- Holistic therapies like mindfulness, acupuncture, nutrition support, and creative expression
- Aftercare planning
Depending on their unique needs, people may remain in treatment for days, weeks, months, or longer. Comprehensive treatment and support can help young adults regain control of their health and futures.
Find a Young Adult Rehab in Florida
If you or a young adult in your life struggles with substance abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Contact the specialists at Archstone Behavioral Health to learn about our treatment and recovery support programs. Reach out if you have questions or want to schedule an intake appointment today.
References:
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA): Substance Misuse Prevention for Young Adults
- Science Direct: Risk for Substance Use Disorders in young adulthood: Associations with developmental experiences of homelessness, foster care, and adverse childhood experiences
