Adolescents face both external pressures and internal predispositions when it comes to developing an addiction. Child services for addiction at Meridian HealthCare address underlying causes and risk factors that may be contributing to symptoms and behaviors.
Addiction is a chronic disease that causes a person to compulsively seek out their addiction despite the negative consequences. Addictions range from drug abuse (such as an opioid use disorder) to behavioral addictions (such as gambling addiction).
Adolescents develop addictions when a substance or action releases a large amount of dopamine to the brain, which creates a desire to participate in that addiction repeatedly in order to feel the same high. Addictions take all shapes and forms; they range from substance abuse to seemingly harmless behaviors like playing video games.
Meridian HealthCare helps young adults learn skills to avoid and recover from substance abuse problems. Adolescents looking for assistance, or caregivers wishing to make a referral, should visit our Meridian Road location.
Meridian Campus
527 North Meridian Road
Youngstown, OH 44509
Phone: 330-797-0070
*If this is an emergency, call 9-1-1 or the National Suicide Prevention hotline
at 1-800-273-8255.
Substance use disorder is a disease with genetic factors that affect a person’s chance of developing an addiction. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (samhsa.gov), people exposed to drug use during early childhood are more likely to have behavioral health and mental health problems. In fact, according to SAMHSA, children of parents with alcohol use disorder are four times more likely to develop a problem themselves compared to other children.
While parental substance use disorders increase the risk, other external factors increase the prevalence of addiction in young adults. Environmental factors like trauma and stress increase the chance of substance misuse. Adolescents experiencing pressure from their peers often search for a way to reduce stress, leading them to try substances.
It is also important to remember that addiction often co-occurs with another mental disorder. Children who struggle with their mental health have a higher risk of developing substance use disorder. Treating a child’s mental health can help mitigate the risk and help as part of a substance use treatment plan.
Meridian HealthCare offers multiple evidence-based treatment services and initiatives to support adolescents. Meridian’s service providers treat health issues and address underlying causes to support true wellness.
Our educational group therapy is a low-intensity support service for adolescents at risk for substance misuse as well as behavior or emotional problems. This eight-week education series includes topics like anger management, building self-esteem, coping skills, healthy relationships, relapse prevention, and more.
Outpatient treatment services allow a young adult to receive substance abuse treatment while providing the flexibility that youth, caregivers, and families need. This 24-day treatment program includes both individual and group counseling, family therapy, drug testing, and educational sessions.
Note: medication-assisted treatment (MAT), an evidence-based outpatient treatment service, is only for those 18 and older.
Young adults in the recovery process also need aftercare and assistance to prevent relapse. Aftercare at Meridian involves six to eight weeks of counseling (individual, group, and family therapy when necessary) and drug screening. Referrals back to a higher level of care can be made at any point.
To support the recovery process, Meridian offers comprehensive drug and alcohol testing services for adolescents. On-site testing from a healthcare professional and at-home screening kits are both available.
Family therapy involves family members meeting with a trained counselor to help them talk through and understand each other’s emotions and behaviors. Family support is one of the most important components of proper treatment and prevention for adolescents. Family therapy can help the child feel listened to and supported.
Meridian HealthCare is the area’s leading education and treatment provider for substance use disorder. Our child services for addiction are evidence-based and focus on the individual’s overall well-being. Meridian is here to help, whether you want to learn more about our adolescent services or make a referral.
Call Today: 330-797-0070
