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Teen opioid aaddiction treatment in Los Angeles

Opioids refer to a group of prescription drugs, made from opium that are clinically used to suppress pain in patients. Opioids suppress chronic pain by producing a sedative effect on the user. Unfortunately, adventurous adolescents experiment with them in a playful way or unknowingly abuse them, leading to addiction. Opioid addiction is one of the worst possible addictions a teenager can have as it creates a very serious mind and body dependency on the drug. Understanding what opioids there are and how they work can help you get your child the help they need to recover.

If you suspect your teen is abusing opioids, it’s important to seek immediate help. Early intervention can prevent serious health risks, including overdose, and increase the chances of long-term recovery. Our treatment programs are tailored to the unique needs of adolescents, providing a safe space for healing.

Medically Reviewed By Dr. Elnaz Mayeh PhD, LMFT

9 min read

Updated July 1, 2025

Most Common Opioids Abused by Teens

Opioids can be classified as agonists and antagonists. Agonists induce pain-relieving properties by replicating endorphins in the body and releasing opioid-like effects after activating various parts of the brain. Agonists are the most addictive opiates. The main work of the antagonists is detoxification and is less addictive. Antagonists aren’t commonly used by teens as they are a form of treatment for opioid addiction. The most common agonist opioids used in teens are:

Fentanyl
Heroin
Morphine
Hydrocodone
Oxycodone
Codeine

How Does Teenage Opioid Addiction Occur?

The question about teenage opioid addiction has remained a mystery. However, the dependence can be explained as an effect of the body’s tolerance to the chemical substances of drugs. If your teen is showing signs of addiction, it may be time to explore programs for out of control teens. When a teenager takes opiates, the body reacts accordingly. Long-term use of opioids interrupts the Mu receptors in the brain, leading to tolerance meaning teens must take a larger dose to achieve the same effects. Over time, the body becomes dependent on opioids. Addiction to opioids negatively affects teenagers and makes it difficult for them to quit. Trying to stop taking opioids can lead to withdrawal symptoms or relapse. Addiction to opioids also increases the risk of overdose as teens are taking large amounts of the drugs.

Support Your Teen’s Recovery from Opioid Addiction

At Key Healthcare, we offer comprehensive, teen-focused opioid addiction treatment that addresses the physical, emotional, and behavioral aspects of recovery. Reach out today to learn how we can help your child reclaim their health and future.

Signs of Opioid Abuse and Addiction in Teens

Teens may exhibit several signs of opioid abuse when they are in active addiction. These signs can be exhibited in all stages of abuse from the very beginning stages to the late stages. If you notice any of these signs it’s important to seek help right away as teen opioid use can lead to overdose and even death.

Mood Swings

Teens may become more irritable and have sudden outbursts of anger or sadness. They may also be more easily agitated or have difficulty concentrating on tasks.

Weight Loss

Teens may experience rapid weight loss due to decreased appetite or forgetting to eat for long periods of time while high.

Secretive Behavior

Teens may be more secretive about their activities and whereabouts or lie about them. They may also start to spend a lot of time alone or in private areas.

Constricted Pupils

Also known as pinpoint pupils, opioid use can cause the pupils of the eyes to become constricted (smaller) due to changes in the parasympathetic system.

Changes in Friends

Teens may start to spend time with different friends than they used to. They may start hanging out with older people, or those who are known to abuse opioids.

Stealing

Teens may start to steal or borrow money in order to buy opioids. They may also be selling their personal items in order to get money for drugs.

Our goal in developing Key Healthcare was to create programs that gave teens the guidance they needed to draw on their strengths and realize their potential to live fulfilling happy lives. Based on our own experiences, we believe that everyone has the ability to change if given the proper structure and connection

Ryan Blivas & Evan Powell

Founders of Key Healthcare

Teen Opioid Addiction Treatment in Los Angeles, CA

There are many ways to help your teen stop abusing opioids. A majority of the time, adolescents will use opioids to cope with their mental health issues. This is why Key Healthcare provides dual diagnosis opioid addiction treatment to treat both the mental health condition and substance abuse. We develop individualized treatment plans to ensure long-term recovery for your child. If you are interested in learning more about our teen opioid addiction treatment options, contact us today.

Intensive Outpatient Treatment (IOP)

Our outpatient treatment for teens opioid addiction takes place 9 hours per week over the course of 4-12 weeks. Your teen will participate in therapy sessions that help them work through the reasons for their opioid abuse.

Partial Hospitalization Treatment (PHP)

Our PHP treatment for teens opioid addiction takes place 8 hours per day, 5 days a week, for 3-4 weeks. Teens will attend therapy sessions where they will develop the coping skills needed to stop abuse of opioids and treat underlying mental health issues.

Teen Residential Treatment Program

Key Healthcare’s teen residential treatment program is a 45-60 day program in Malibu, California, where adolescents receive the highest level of care, with 24/7 support.

Extended Care

Our male-only extended care treatment for teens opioid addiction is a combination of our partial hospitalization program and sober living. Your teen will have around the clock support to treat all mental health and substance abuse issues related to his opioid use.

Individual and Group Therapy

We utilize a variety of individual adolescent therapies and teen group counseling to treat mental health conditions and dual diagnosis opioid abuse including cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavior, and acceptance and commitment therapy. During sessions, teens will learn coping skills and how to process their emotions.

It might feel like a big step, but remember why you're here—you’re looking for a way forward.

Frequently Asked Questions

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What is the purpose of the insurance verification form?

Our secure, HIPAA-compliant form helps you determine whether your health plan covers care at Key Healthcare. Once you submit it, our admissions team will review your benefits and personally walk you through your options—without sharing any information with your insurance provider.

What happens after I submit the form?

We’ll review your submission and contact you—typically within the hour—to go over your coverage details and the next steps in the process. Rest assured, we do not notify your insurance provider.

Why should I check my insurance?

Understanding your coverage makes planning easier. Most families find that their plan covers at least part of our programs. Even if it doesn’t, we’ll explore alternate options together.

How much will care cost with insurance?

Costs vary depending on your plan, the type of care needed, and treatment length. Our team will interpret your benefits for you and explain any potential out-of-pocket expenses so you’re never caught off guard.

Request a Call

Is your teen struggling with mental health or substance use challenges?

Request a confidential call today – our team will walk you through the admissions process, treatment options, costs, and what to expect. Reaching out is a powerful first step toward a healthier future for your teen and your family.

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Insurances we Accept

Key Healthcare works with a majority of health insurance providers and depending on your plan, 100% of the costs may be covered. Verify your insurance to get more information about your coverage.

Get in touch with Key Healthcare

Get in touch with Key Healthcare to learn how our teen-focused mental health and addiction treatment programs can support your family. Our compassionate team is here to answer your questions, guide you through the admissions process, and help your teen take the first step toward lasting recovery.

If you are ready to get help for your child, we are here to help. Feel free to call us, email, or fill out our contact form to get started today. You can also verify your insurance to begin the process.

Check Insurance

Structure, support, and a path forward. See how programs at Key Healthcare help teens thrive.

Take the first step by verifying your insurance today and find out what coverage options are available for your family. Our team will review your benefits and help you understand how to access the care your teen needs.

Medical Reviewer

Dr. Elnaz Mayeh PhD, LMFT

As Executive Director, Dr. Mayeh is dedicated to maintaining Key Healthcare’s reputation as a premier adolescent treatment center, fostering a stable and supportive environment for both clients and staff. Her leadership focuses on clinical integrity, staff development, and creating a culture of compassion and growth.