Young Adult Treatment Programs in New York

What Causes Young Adults to Abuse Substances?

Young adults may turn to unhealthy substance use for a variety of reasons, often influenced by a complex interplay of biological, psychological, and environmental factors:[2, 3]

• Biological factors: Genetics play a significant role in predisposing individuals to substance use disorders. Some people may have a genetic vulnerability to addiction, making them more susceptible to the effects of drugs or alcohol. Additionally, imbalances in brain chemistry can contribute to cravings and compulsive substance use.
• Psychological factors: Mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, trauma, or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are frequently linked to substance use disorders. Young adults may use drugs or alcohol as a way to self-medicate, attempting to alleviate emotional pain or cope with stress.
• Social and environmental influences: Peer pressure, social norms, and cultural attitudes toward substance use can significantly impact a young adult’s behavior. Exposure to family members or friends who abuse substances can normalize drug or alcohol use and increase the likelihood of experimentation.
• Stress and life transition: Young adulthood is a period marked by significant life transitions, including changes in education, employment, relationships, and independence. The pressure to succeed, coupled with uncertainty about the future, can lead some individuals to turn to substances as a means of coping with stress or escaping reality.
• Accessibility and availability: Easy access to drugs or alcohol, whether through peers, family members, or social settings, can contribute to unhealthy substance use among young adults. Factors such as affordability, availability, and societal acceptance of substance use can influence patterns of consumption.
• Lack of coping skills: Many young adults have not yet developed effective coping mechanisms to manage emotions, handle stress, or navigate challenging situations. Substance use may offer a temporary escape or perceived solution to underlying difficulties, albeit with harmful consequences in the long run.

Understanding the multifaceted nature of substance use in young adults is crucial for developing effective prevention and intervention strategies. By addressing underlying risk factors and providing comprehensive support, you or your loved one can be empowered to overcome substance use disorder and lead healthier, more fulfilling lives.

What Substances Do Young People Abuse?

Young people abuse a wide range of substances, including both legal and illegal drugs, alcohol, and prescription medications:[4]

• Alcohol: Alcohol is one of the most widely abused substances among young people. Social gatherings, parties, and peer pressure often contribute to excessive drinking. Binge drinking, defined as consuming large quantities of alcohol in a short period, is particularly prevalent among college students and young adults.
• Marijuana: Cannabis, including marijuana and hashish, is commonly used by young adults for recreational purposes. Changing attitudes and legalization in some areas have contributed to increased marijuana use among this demographic.
• Prescription medications: Prescription drugs, particularly opioid painkillers, stimulants (such as Adderall or Ritalin), and sedatives (such as benzodiazepines), are frequently misused by young adults. Some obtain these medications through legitimate prescriptions, while others may misuse them recreationally or to self-medicate.
• Synthetic drugs: Synthetic substances, including synthetic cannabinoids (such as Spice or K2) and synthetic cathinones (such as bath salts), are designed to mimic the effects of traditional drugs like marijuana or amphetamines. These substances are often marketed as legal alternatives but can be highly dangerous and unpredictable.
• Stimulants: Besides prescription stimulants, young adults may abuse illicit stimulants like cocaine or methamphetamine for their euphoric and energizing effects. These drugs can have severe health consequences and are associated with a high risk of a substance use disorder.
• Hallucinogens: Some young adults experiment with hallucinogenic drugs like LSD (acid), psilocybin mushrooms (magic mushrooms), or MDMA (ecstasy) for their mind-altering effects. While these substances may not be as commonly misused as alcohol or marijuana, their use poses significant risks, including psychological distress and adverse reactions.
• Inhalants: Inhalants, such as household solvents, aerosol sprays, or nitrous oxide (laughing gas), are sometimes misused by young people seeking a quick high. However, inhalant use can lead to serious health complications and even death.

What Are The Benefits of Young Adult Drug Rehab on Long Island?

Young adults can benefit significantly from addiction and dual diagnosis treatment in several ways:[5]

• Holistic assessment: Young adult drug rehab often begins with a comprehensive assessment to identify not only the substance use disorder but also any co-occurring mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, or trauma-related disorders. This thorough evaluation allows for personalized treatment plans that address the individual’s unique challenges and circumstances.
• An integrated approach to treatment: Dual diagnosis treatment integrates mental health care with substance use disorder treatment, addressing both issues simultaneously. This approach recognizes the interconnected nature of substance use and mental health disorders, leading to more effective outcomes and long-term recovery for young adults.
• Developmentally-appropriate therapy: Group and individual therapy modalities used in addiction and dual diagnosis treatment for young adults are often tailored to their developmental stage and specific needs. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), motivational interviewing, and mindfulness-based interventions are commonly utilized to address issues such as impulsivity, emotion regulation, and identity formation.
• Peer support: Group therapy and peer support networks play a crucial role in substance use disorder treatment for young adults. Connecting with peers who are facing similar challenges provides a sense of belonging, validation, and encouragement. Peer support can also serve as a source of accountability and motivation during the recovery process.
• Life skills development: Treatment programs for young adults often focus on developing essential life skills necessary for maintaining sobriety and overall well-being. These skills may include coping mechanisms for managing stress, effective communication, problem-solving strategies, and healthy relationship-building skills.
• Educational and vocational support: Many young adults enter substance use disorder treatment while still pursuing their education or career goals. Treatment programs may offer educational support services to help individuals stay on track academically or vocationally while receiving treatment. This may include tutoring, assistance with school or job applications, and accommodations for academic or work-related responsibilities.
• Family involvement: Engaging family members in the treatment process can strengthen the individual’s support system and improve family dynamics. Family therapy sessions provide opportunities for open communication, addressing family dynamics, and rebuilding trust and relationships strained by substance use and mental health issues.
• Relapse prevention strategies: Learning how to identify triggers, manage cravings, and prevent relapse is a critical component of treatment programs for young adults. Treatment programs often equip individuals with relapse prevention strategies and tools to help them navigate potential challenges and setbacks in their recovery journey.

Overall, substance use disorder and dual diagnosis treatment tailored to the needs of young adults provide a supportive and empowering environment for individuals to address their substance use disorders, achieve recovery, and build fulfilling lives free from the grip of addiction and mental health challenges.