The first few days of adolescent drug detox in Los Angeles are always the most difficult for teens as well as the family. This is known as the detox period, and it is critical to help rid the body of the chemicals and toxins from the drugs that are impacting both physical as well as mental functions.
The adolescent drug detox in Los Angeles will start immediately upon admission to a treatment program for almost all teens. In some cases, if the teen has not used for a significant period of time it is not necessary, but this is rarely the situation upon admission.
The First Step
Once the teen has been admitted to the program, a medical doctor and a mental health professional will assess the teen. This includes getting a full medical history, which is often provided by the parents, as well as completing current medical tests.
During this initial stage of adolescent drug detox, the teen is also assessed for risk of harm to self or others. This testing may result in a hospitalized detox and stabilization period if deemed in the best interests of the teen or if there is a history of self-harm or harm to others.
The Process
Unlike what is portrayed in the movies or on TV, adolescent drug detox in Los Angeles is not simply a “cold turkey” style of treatment. Instead, a licensed medical doctor and staff will provide support for the teen through the process, which may involve the use of specific prescription medications to alleviate the physical and mental signs and symptoms of withdrawal.
The teen will be carefully monitored for any health issues during the process, and also provided with nutritional supplements to provide the resources needed for the body to recover. Most teens will also be involved in some treatment activities such as individual therapy or group sessions based on their ability to participate.
The Family
In almost all situations, the adolescent drug detox in Los Angeles will be considered a “blackout” period where the teen is not able to have visitors or to talk to people outside of the treatment program staff. In some cases, the teen may have contact by phone, but the staff is typically present during the conversation.
Parents can contact the adolescent drug detox in Los Angeles and ask about their child’s progress through detox, and this contact is often highly encouraged. After detox is completed regular visits and time spent with the family in the program will be encouraged, and the blackout is just a temporary initial requirement.
At Adolescent Growth, we provide a medically supervised adolescent drug detox in Los Angeles with full hospitalization if necessary.
