Addiction is a complicated problem that can affect a person's body and mind. It can be difficult for people of any age to overcome their addictions, but teenagers can face unique challenges due to their youth and inexperience. Fortunately, there are substance abuse treatment programs specifically geared toward helping minors. Substance abuse clinics for teenagers help teens build the skills and coping mechanisms they need to stop using drugs and alcohol. Here are some of the skills that a teen substance abuse treatment clinic can impart.

1. Internal Motivation

Many teenagers enroll in substance abuse treatment programs due to their parents' influence. However, while parents can put their adolescents in treatment programs, they cannot make their kids cooperate. Teens need internal motivation in order to commit to becoming sober. Addiction counselors can provide motivators for teenagers at an inpatient substance abuse clinic. Privileges such as extra free time and lighter supervision can increase teens' desire to participate in their treatment programs. 

2. Sound Judgment

Teenagers are still growing into their bodies and minds. Their brains are not yet fully developed, but adolescence is an excellent time to learn to practice good judgment. A substance abuse treatment clinic can teach teenagers important facts about the negative consequences of drugs and alcohol. Through therapy, teens can improve their decision-making skills in order to make choices that will keep them out of trouble, allowing them to live happy and healthy lives.

3. Boundary Management

Boundaries are important for people of all ages. Good boundaries allow people to accept the treatment they deserve while rejecting negative influences. Teens who struggle with substance abuse may have particular trouble defending their boundaries. However, strong boundaries are necessary for resisting peer pressure. Counseling sessions at a substance abuse treatment clinic can help teenagers learn to stand up for themselves, even when they find themselves in peer groups. Practicing turning down drugs and alcohol in safe, low-stakes situations can make it less likely that teens will relapse.

4. Setting Goals

Goals can help people accomplish the things that are important to them. Teenagers who are addicted to substances may lack positive goals in their lives. Fortunately, the counselors at a teen substance abuse treatment clinic can help adolescents develop healthy goals to work toward. Goals such as earning good grades in school, getting into college, and strengthening their relationships with family members can help teens focus on things besides drugs and alcohol.