Teen substance abuse can be a taboo topic. No parent wants to think about their child developing an addiction. However, teens can be susceptible to addiction, especially due to peer pressure. Prompt treatment can help kids overcome addictions. Here are four facts that parents should know about teen addiction when considering a substance abuse treatment program:

1. Teenagers may need their parents' help to stop using drugs or alcohol

Teenagers may not be mature enough to make the decision to stop using drugs or alcohol on their own. Fortunately, parents and guardians can enroll teenagers in substance abuse treatment programs. With the consent of parents, addiction counselors can help teenagers learn better ways to cope with their emotions than through substance abuse. 

2. Teenagers with substance abuse problems often use more than one substance

Not all teens with substance abuse problems abuse the same drugs. Some teenagers use alcohol, while others use marijuana or harder drugs. An addiction to one substance makes it more likely that teens will experiment with other substances as well. Teens may lie to their parents about the extent of their drug addiction, which can render treatments less effective. Staying in an inpatient substance abuse facility can be helpful in this regard. Teens will be monitored around the clock, which means they will not have the ability to use any substances during their recovery.

3. Teenagers are less capable of assessing risk accurately than adults

Most adults with substance abuse issues realize that they have a problem. However, teenagers' brains are less developed than adult brains. As a result, teenagers are less adept when it comes to assessing risks. Teens may not feel that their drug or alcohol use is problematic, even when that isn't the case. A teen substance abuse treatment program can teach teenagers about the physical and mental dangers of drug use. Addiction counselors can teach teenagers about the dangers of using substances during a period in their lives while their brains are still developing.

4. Teenagers may have an easier time overcoming addiction than adults

Teen substance abuse is a real problem. Fortunately, there is some good news. Teenagers may have an easier time overcoming their addictions than adults do. Adolescent bodies are robust, which means teenagers may experience less severe withdrawal symptoms than adults. Shorter, lighter withdrawal symptoms can make it easier for teenagers to persevere through the detox period. Additionally, teenagers have the support of adults in their lives, which can make a big difference when seeking sobriety.