It is difficult for people of all ages to deal with the challenges posed by addiction. Drugs and alcohol are extremely damaging to anyone’s bodies, but young people are particularly at risk when they become chemically dependent because of the fact that their bodies are still developing.

Often, alcoholism goes untreated in young adults because it is seen as “normal college student behavior.” The fact is, however, that a person of any age can be an alcoholic. In fact, young adults are the demographic that most frequently suffers from alcoholism. Fortunately, there are ways in which drug and alcohol abuse can be stopped in young adults.

Substance Abuse Often Connected

Because substance abuse is often linked to other mental health issues, it is important to address any underlying problems as treatment is sought. Often, people who become dependent on drugs or alcohol at a young age are prone to depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, or other related psychological disorders. One way to determine whether issues like these are affecting a family member is to maintain close contact; either by phone, or in person with them.

Parents should take note when their child becomes despondent or difficult to reach. If the adult child is still financially dependant on their parents, financial well-being can also be a good indicator of trouble. When an unusual amount of money is being spent, or the young person cannot account for their spending, they may be exhibiting the signs of depression and alcoholism. Working with a mental health professional to determine the cause of these problems, and, subsequently, a solution for them, is an important step in helping an addict recover.

Dealing With Addiction

When dealing with the actual addiction itself, some programs may work better for young adults than others. Young adults are particularly susceptible to peer pressure. They care greatly about the opinions of others, and are much more concerned than their older counterparts about how they fit into their social circle. Particularly in the case of an addicted college student, this may be one reason that they began using in the first place.

Just as peer pressure can be the catalyst for an addiction, it can also be a wonderful tool in recovery. Group therapy and anonymous twelve step programs can be a highly effective way for addicts to develop a new social network that discourages drug and alcohol use. This is particularly important after the initial phases of treatment, when a young person may return to the social situations that threaten to trigger their addictive behavior.

Removing A Young Adult

Removing a young adult from the environment that is leading them to use is also a highly effective method of treatment. Eliminating the stress and drama associated with a volatile social life can help an addict attain the clarity and focus on one’s person well-being necessary to recover. High school and college students may be particularly prone to depression that is associated with a failed romance or friendship.

They may then turn to drugs or alcohol as a means of numbing their emotions. It can be difficult, if not impossible, to stop the cycle of use while they are still faced with socializing with the person or people who led them towards depression and use. For this reason, an inpatient program, which removes them entirely from potential drama, can deliver excellent adults.

Treatments Available

If you suspect that you or a loved one is addicted to drugs or alcohol, take solace in the fact that there are a number of reliable treatments available. The most important thing is that action is taken as soon as possible. A young person has many wonderful years of life ahead of them, and it is important that their health and safety are not jeopardized by addcition.