TEENAGE DRUG ADDICTIONS

Substance misuse in young men can involve more than just illicit drugs. Often, it includes the misuse of alcohol, prescription medications, or vaping as a way to cope with underlying stress.

What may start as experimentation can evolve into dependency, where a substance is needed more often and in larger amounts to feel normal. At this point, professional intervention is the safest and most effective way to regain control.

THE SIGNS OF TEEN SUBSTANCE MISUSE

If you suspect your son is misusing substances, consider the following questions. If they answer “yes” to several, it may be time to seek professional help.

  • Is he spending a lot of time alone?
  • Has his sleep schedule changed?
  • Is his self-care declining?
  • Has his group of friends changed?
  • Have his relationships with family deteriorated?
  • Has his appetite changed?
  • Has he lost interest in things he used to enjoy?
  • Does his mood change quickly and unpredictably?
  • Does he need to use more of a substance to achieve the same effect?

TEEN DRUG ADDICTION TREATMENT

It is harmful but not unusual for people to use drugs as a way to cope with depression, anxiety, or past trauma, or even to self-medicate a behavioural disorder.
In these cases, their substance abuse might be classified as a co-occurring disorder, and it will be important to seek treatment both for their use of narcotics and the emotional issue at the root of their drug use to ensure that they achieve a full and lasting recovery. Continued drug abuse can have devastating consequences: addiction, chronic health problems, and fatal overdoses.

Because YOUNG MEN ARE AT HIGH RISK FOR ADDICTION

Learn about Our Addiction Treatment Pathway

TREATMENT FOR TEENAGE DRUG ABUSE

While outpatient options exist, a residential programme like The Edge Crete provides the most immersive and effective environment for change.

By removing a young man from the daily triggers and stresses that fuel his substance use, he has the space to focus entirely on his recovery.

In the safe, structured, and supportive setting of our private villa in Crete, clients receive a combination of intensive one-on-one and group therapy, engage in healthy wellness activities, and build essential life skills. Our treatment also stimulates their mind and body with a range of other activities, including intensive fitness and sport training and wilderness adventure. This helps to simulate the overcoming of challenges that lie ahead in the path toward recovery, as well as to kick-startuction of feel-good endorphins in their brain.

HOW THE CABIN CRETE CAN HELP YOU WITH THE DRUG ADDICTION?

Call and consult with us at +30 800 999 9120 today—to see how we can help your son addicted to drugs not only get clean but become a stronger, sharper, better person.

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE ADDICTION

Drug Addiction Frequently Asked Questions

WHAT IS ADDICTION?

Addiction is a disorder in which the brain’s reward circuits do not function properly. Up to 60% of addicts are likely to have inherited the disorder genetically (National Institute of Drug Abuse, 2010). In addition, the reward system can be damaged by overconsumption. Those affected by this disorder will continue to reinforce their dulled reward system with substances (drugs, alcohol) or processes (gambling, sex, food ) to increase feelings of pleasure – but only temporarily. Once this happens, people with a genetic susceptibility to this disorder will have knock-on effects or chemical cascades in other parts of the brain that affect things like judgement and impulse control. This is why ‘addicts’ or alcoholics cannot control their consumption. Addiction is a chronic disorder (American Society of Addiction Medicine, 2011), which means it lingers, and symptoms will return if it is not treated.

WHAT IS DRUG ADDICTION?
Drug addiction, also known as substance use disorder, is a specific form of addiction that involves the compulsive and harmful use of drugs. It occurs when an individual becomes physically and psychologically dependent on a substance, leading to a loss of control over its use. Drug addiction can involve both legal and illegal substances, such as prescription medications, opioids, stimulants, sedatives, hallucinogens, and illicit drugs. It is characterized by intense cravings, tolerance (requiring larger doses for the same effect), withdrawal symptoms when the drug is discontinued, and continued drug use despite negative consequences. Drug addiction can have severe detrimental effects on a person’s health, relationships, and overall quality of life.
HOW CAN I HELP SOMEONE WITH DRUG ABUSE?

The most important steps are to encourage open, non-judgmental communication, set clear and healthy boundaries, and seek professional guidance. You cannot force someone to change, but you can be a supportive part of their recovery. Our admissions team can provide confidential advice for your specific situation.

HOW DOES THE EDGE CRETE TREAT SUBSTANCE MISUSE?

Our approach is holistic and integrated. We combine evidence-based therapies like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and EMDR (for trauma) with a focus on physical wellness and life skills development. We treat the co-occurring mental health conditions that often drive substance misuse. In the therapeutic environment of Crete, clients build a strong foundation for a sober, healthy, and fulfilling life.

READY TO CHANGE?

Every journey starts with one step forward.
Take the first step in regaining control of your life by getting in touch with us and finding out what you can become.

Or if you need immediate assistance, please call: +30 800 999 9120