The need for California rehab for teens has exploded into a real necessity as mental health and substance abuse related disorders continue to rise. More teens in California than ever before are experiencing a mental health crisis, which is only made worse by the current pandemic and the challenges that teens are facing, such as isolation, loneliness, depression and anxiety.
Rise in Substance Abuse Among California Teens Following Marijuana Legalization
After legalizing marijuana use for adults in 2016, the state of California has experienced a steady rise in teens using the drug. According to a study by the Journal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs in 2021, marijuana use among seventh, ninth and eleventh graders had increased by 23% across a 30-day period. The likelihood of teens using marijuana for their lifetime also rose by 18%. Marijuana is known as a gateway drug, a NIDA study found that it ‘primes’ the brain for enhanced responses to other drugs, making them more attractive in particular to teens, whose brain responses are still maturing. The rise in vaping popularity may also be adding to the rise in marijuana use, as teens can access vaping products more easily and therefore may ignore the risks attached.
If you’re worried that your teen has a dependency on marijuana, some symptoms to look out for:
- Irritability
- Moodiness
- Difficulty sleeping
- Decreased appetite or increased cravings
- Restlessness
- Depression
- Anxiety
When it comes to teen drug use, Marin County is one of the hardest hit areas in California, where the rate of drug use is 49 per capita, highlighting an ever-growing need for addiction treatment for teens in California.
Teen Mental Health Statistics in California
Mental Health America (MHA) recently released their 2021 report, which ranks all of the US states in terms of mental health, substance abuse and access to care. In this report, they ranked California’s teen mental health at number 33 out of 50. This further highlights the need for mental health California rehab for teens in the state. The report also showed that 14 percent of teens in California had at least one major depressive episode within the last year, and that almost half of them had a severe
Mental Health America (MHA) recently released their 2021 report, which ranks all of the US states in terms of mental health, substance abuse and access to care. In this report, they ranked California’s teen mental health at number 33 out of 50. This further highlights the need for mental health California rehab for teens in the state. The report also showed that 14 percent of teens in California had at least one major depressive episode within the last year, and that almost half of them had a severe
Teens in California are also facing a rise in suicide and suicidal ideation, which is tandem with the rise in depression and substance abuse rates. Suicidal ideation refers to having suicidal thoughts, while it is not the same as actually planning a suicide, it is a clear sign of an underlying mental health disorder, and that treatment is needed. Signs of suicidal behavior to look out for include:
- Feelings of hopelessness
- Expressing a want to die on social media or verbally in-person
- Withdrawing from friends and family
- Acting like they are a burden to those around them
- Increased moodiness, anxiety or highly agitated
- Using drugs or alcohol as a means to escape
- Changes in eating or sleep habits
MHA found that California ranked at number 45 in terms of access to care, showing that almost two-thirds of teens with depression, anxiety or other mental health issues are not getting the help that they need. If you feel that your teen is showing concerning signs of a mental health disorder or substance abuse disorder, it’s important to seek treatment as soon as possible. Early intervention can lead to the best outcomes.
“A child’s biology and psychology create their overall temperament, which determines how they take in and process the world. Some kids and teens are more sensitive, and if they’re unable to find healthy coping mechanisms to help them handle these intense feelings and reactions, they may spiral into depression, anxiety, or other condition.”
—Heather Senior Monroe, Senior Clinician at Newport Academy
Finding a California Rehab for Teens Near Me
When you have made the important realization that your teen needs help, it’s vital to reach out and speak to a skilled representative about your options. They may suggest that your teen would benefit from an inpatient residential treatment center, or that they’d be better suited to an outpatient facility, where the treatment is just as successful, but has slightly different levels of intensity. Teen treatment approaches a teen rehab center California should be tailored to address your teen’s mental health or substance abuse patterns. Moreover, their specific medical, psychiatric, and social problems should be addressed as well. Thus, a careful assessment, both medical and psychological, needs to be part of the process.
Who We Help
At TeenRehab.org, we assist families that have been impacted by mental health struggles, teen drinking, and teen drug addiction. We understand that often online sources can be unreliable. Our mission is to offer a safety net of carefully researched and evidence-based resources to help parents make informed decisions. We aim to become a trusted resource for you and your family in a time of need.
If you are feeling overwhelmed with the options available, we are available 24/7, 7 days a week. Call us on 888-348-0584, or contact us today and speak to a trained professional about your teen’s needs and how we can assist you in finding the best treatment available to your teen.
