Teen Opioid Abuse 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.

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Most Common Opioids Abused by Teens

How Does Teenage Opioid Addiction Occur?

Signs of Opioid Abuse and Addiction in Teens

Teen Opioid Addiction Treatment in Los Angeles, CA

Understanding Teen Opioid Abuse

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

Causes of Teen Opioid Addiction

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. 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.

Teen Opioid Addicton Signs

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.

Teen Opioid Addiction Treatment by 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 opioid addiction IOP 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)

Ouropioid addiction PHPP 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.

Extended Care

Our male-only opioid addiction extended care program 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 therapies 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.

Insurances We Accept

Up to 100% of the Costs Covered by Insurance

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.