March is coming! Many of us get excited about the fact that March is almost here because one thing always happens in March and that one thing is Spring Break! Both college and high school students get so excited for this week of vacation because they get to travel, party and live life to the fullest with friends. Yes, it is great to make memories that you will always remember, but always remember to be cautious. When it comes to spring break two things are sometimes connected to it and that is alcohol and drugs. So, when it comes to Spring Break is it a time to celebrate or a time for alarm? During this time substance abuse might take place and affect these teens and young adult’s futures. While many teens and young adults are planning to relax and have fun during their well-deserved break, they may make decisions that are not worth it in the long run. Opportunity to try something “new” or for relapse spikes during this time. Don’t make a decision that can damage your future or lead you to substance abuse.
What is substance abuse?
According to The National Center of Addiction and Substance Abuse 1 in 4 Americans who first smoked, drank or used other drugs before age 18 has a substance problem. The problem begins when you’re a teen and grows as you become an adult. As people become older his or her body become less skilled at tolerating substances that are addictive and have more of a negative effect. As people become older substance abuse can get worse which includes drinking, while others might get addicted to prescription medications such as anti-anxiety drugs and pain killers.
What to look out for?
Different situations in a person’s life can cause them to take the road to drugs and alcohol. Adults may turn to substances that are addicted when trying to deal with stress. The stress can be taking care of a child, balancing family and work and taking care of a household. Addiction can increase when a person reaches middle age. When adult reaches middle age, they can deal with situations that can lead them to a stronger addiction. Some of these situations include: divorce, financial pressures, illness with yourself or family member, economic situation, emotional stress, caring for parents or a death of family member or friend.
Why do people turn to drugs and alcohol?
People who use substances such as drugs and alcohol tend to turn to these substances because they like the way it makes them feel. Drugs and alcohol that are addicting can activate the brain’s pleasure circuit.
How to know if you have a problem?
Sometimes when a person is addicted to alcohol or drugs they can be in denial. But a person can have a problem with drugs or alcohol if you continue to consume them even though they can have a negative side effect to your health, money, work. School or relationships. Drugs and Alcohol might be a problem for you if you have learned how to tolerate them. Most importantly if your family and friends seem concern and tell you, you have a problem, then you might start to realize you have a problem.
How can I get help?
There are many different programs that can help either a teen or adult with substance abuse. Beyond therapeutic services, other places, like sober living homes, can offer a lot of support. However, a place that offers several therapies for both teens and adults is Access Counseling Group. Access Counseling located in both Plano and Frisco Texas. Access offers Drug and Alcohol Treatment for teens, Adult Treatment Programs and Substance Abuse Assessments. The adult treatment programs offered at Access Counseling includes 10 hours of counseling every week which includes group, individual, and family counseling.
What treatment is offered at Access Counseling Group?
Drug and Alcohol Treatment for teens are offered at our facilities as follows:
Plano Facility:
Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays: 1 p.m. – 4 p.m.
Frisco Facility:
Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays: 3 p.m. – 6 p.m.
If school is out for summer or Holidays: 1 p.m. – 4 p.m.
Our Adult Treatment Programs are offered as follows:
Plano Facility:
Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays: 4:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Frisco Facility:
Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays: 9 a.m. – Noon
If you would like any help or need any guidance for an adolescent that is struggling with substance abuse, please contact Access Counseling in Plano and Frisco, Texas today! We are here to help!