The opioid epidemic has become a major problem. It’s even growing among teenaged children. Of all deaths caused by drug overdose in the United States, opioids cause nearly 60% of them. Heroin causes a majority of these opioid overdoses. In 1999, the death rate was 4x less than what it is now. Another statistic to watch is total prescription sales in the US. This number began to rise in 1999 as well. In America, 91 people die per day due to opioid abuse.

As doctors better regulate the distribution of these drugs and more parents secure their prescriptions at home, we will see the rate in overdose deaths in teens decline.

The opioid problem in America is startling. However, even though we see these climbing statistics, we’re seeing this cultural problem invade more and more homes. Many teens are succumbing to the temptation to abuse prescription drugs. Residential treatment centers and therapeutic boarding schools in Utah have been shown to help teens struggling with these addictions.

Addiction Treatment Programs Modeled After “Boot Camp”

This form of treatment is heavily modeled after the US military. The teen must completely comply with and agree to this style of treatment. If they are in any disagreement with this type of counseling, it may be very traumatic for them. Unfortunately, this style of program tends to cost less which can be a draw for many parents.

Instead, parents are encouraged to look for residential treatment centers and therapeutic boarding schools for healthier treatment.

Therapeutic Boarding Schools

When you consider a therapeutic boarding school for your teen, they may be enrolled in this type of program for 2 months and even up to 2 years. Typically a therapeutic boarding school is a structured academic and community based environment that focuses on individual and group therapy. Your student will continue with their schooling while receiving excellent therapy treatments that allow them to overcome their current addictive mental state. The positive aspects to this type of program include the following:

  • Mental maturity and growth
  • Group and individual therapy
  • Professional assistance from licensed medical professionals
  • Transitional counseling for the return home
  • Research-based results

Residential Treatment Centers

Residential treatment centers offer a shorter and more intense program than a therapeutic boarding school. This would be the type of program to consider if your teen needs more help. They specialize in helping those with more serious cases of addiction and behavioral problems. In a residential treatment center, you can expect the following:

  • Safe environment
  • Medical and therapeutic healing
  • Professional assistance from licensed medical professionals

Continue Looking For Help

If you or your family member is experiencing problems with medication drugs and other opioids, you’re not alone. Many parents & families are working through similar struggles and Utah based programs for drug addiction have been very helpful in resolving these issues. The most important thing you can do for yourself is to become educated in all things addiction and recovery. Find support for yourself and your loved one. There is plenty of hope!

Author's Bio: 

Tyler Jacobson - father of three and avid outdoor enthusiast - has been juggling life with kids for around 16 years. He’s learned a thing or two about parenting and has turned from a full time career in digital media to helping fellow parents of challenging teenagers. He pulls from his own life experiences raising children, including a child with RAD, as well as researching studies, statistics, and solutions for parents looking to improve their families lives. During his free time, Tyler enjoys taking his family into the mountains to connect with a simpler side of life which he finds grounding and rejuvenating. Follow Tyler on: Twitter | LinkedIn