Ecstasy

Ecstasy, also referred to as MDMA, is a hallucinogenic amphetamine that is recreationally used and abused by teens. there is a recent trend towards an increase in ecstasy use among teen entering teen drug rehab. “X” is usually taken in pill form and one pill can last between 4-6 hours. “X” is most commonly used by teens at parties, nightclubs and raves, this may be because “X” produces a blend of mellowing effects, heightened arousal and enhanced self and group consciousness. The most common side effect for teens and other users produced from “X” is a rise in body temperature, which usually results in minor dehydration, which is dangerous considering that dancing for hours without very many breaks or water is common while using this drug. Other common side effects include an increase in blood pressure, chills, sweating, blurred vision and nausea. However, heavy use can result in speed-like symptoms of paranoia, liver damage and heart attacks.
Studies show that “X” uses serotonin, which is a chemical in the brain that affects the mood. After the initial high, the user might feel depressed, tired and moody. The body eventually does produce more serotonin, but it may take some time to get the serotonin back to normal levels. Although research has not concluded that “X” will produce brain damage in humans, heavy use of the drug has produced neurological damage in rats and monkeys.

ADHD Medications… Helpful or Harmful?

ADHD medications… Helpful or harmful?

These days there are so many teens and young people are being diagnosed with ADHD or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Thank goodness that we have a number of various medications with which to treat this disorder in teens. However, many of these medications lead to more problems than not. The two most commonly used medications for ADHD are Ritalin and Adderall and both of these medications are classified as scheduled II drugs in the amphetamine class. Although classified as amphetamines when used as directed by a medical professional these medications help those with ADHD and ADD to focus for longer periods of time and fully complete tasks.

However, these stimulants also have a high percentage of teen misuse, teen abuse and teen dependence. It has been found that many teens and school-aged children have been trading, buying and selling their prescriptions with one another. Many of them also have taken to snorting these medications thinking that because it is a prescription it is a safer alternative to cocaine. The truth is that when snorted or injected the potency of the drugs increase because it enters the bloodstream directly and if not prescribed to the user the risk is equal or more greater than cocaine. Most teens and adolescents that enter drug rehab have at one time or another abused their own or somebodyelse's prescription for Adderall, Ritalin or some other stimulant based medication.

I Was a Teenage Drug Addict

I grew up and spent my teen years in Los Angeles, where drugs were easy to find, and alcohol was around all the time. My parents were big drinkers, so they never noticed any booze missing. In middle school, I got into drugs and alcohol a lot. My friends and I stole alcohol, and bought drugs with stolen money. We were rebellious teenagers with a thirst for terrorizing the city. I know what its like to be a teenage drug addict and alcoholic. I relate to a lot of the kids here at the teen-drug-rehab, and I can understand where they're coming from. I was there once myself. I think its important for the kids here to know that the staff has been through similar circumstances. In my experience, the kids learn to trust and respect the staff and others when they know that they are being understood and heard. Years later, I reconnected with a bunch of my old friends from middle school, and even elementary school. We are all in AA now. Its amazing to see so many faces that I grew up with in the rooms of Alcoholics Anonymous. None of us are alone, and we can all lean on each other.

Malibu Canyon Fire

Will the Malibu Canyon Fire affect drug rehabs in Malibu. Drug treatment centers should have a fire department approved evacuation plan in place. Visions Adolescent Treatment Center meets with the local fire department once a year to discuss fire prevention, brush clearence and evacuation plans.

Celebrity Influence on Teen Drug Use

Celebrity influence on teen drug use and Teen Drug rehab is at an all time high. Adolescents acquire much of thier beliefs about drugs and alcohol from role models. With celebrities like Brittany Spears and her abuse of prescription drugs. Lindsay Lohan's cocaine abuse and eating disorder. Pete Doherty's cocaine use and heroin abuse. Model Kate Moss's addiction and stay in drug rehab. The list could go on as a virtual who's who of hollywood elite's stays in drug treatment centers. If you combine the facts that celebrities are looked up to by adolescents with social pressures and a genetic predisposition it's no wonder so many teens end up struggling with addiction and alcohol abuse today.

Adolescent Drug Abuse

Adolescent drug abuse is treatable. There are substance abuse experts who treat adolescents with varying levels of drug and or alcohol use / abuse. It is important when evaluating an adolescent for substance use, addiction, and drug use that the professional is experienced, and credentialed to treat teenagers / adolescents.

Teen Drug Treatment

Teen Drug Treatment Centers should be staffed by Licensed and accredited Professionals for maximum results. Adolescent Rehabs should have a staff that consists of Physicians, Licensed Therapists, Chemical Dependency Counselors, Registered dietitians, Psychologists, etc. Teen rehabs need to be safe and secure for the teen,family and Staff.