It’s one thing to come to terms with having a troubled teen, but it’s quite another to figure out why they’re struggling. The good news is, there are a few common reasons that teens become troubled. And many therapists and treatment programs are well versed in healing troubled teens so they can go on to live flourishing adult lives. Here are some typical causes of a troubled teen and how Venture Academy can help your teen and your family.
Cause #1: Performance Pressures
Your teen is under a lot of pressure to perform. Whether that’s at school, or on the sports field, teens usually have a lot going on, and they are expected to be good at it. A desire to perform can lead to drug use, mental health problems, and alcohol abuse. Teen boys are more likely to experience pressure in athletics and find themselves misusing prescription drugs to enhance their performance. On the other hand, teen girls are far more likely to succumb to academic pressure and abuse caffeine, energy drinks, and prescription drugs that improve concentration in an attempt to study more.
Cause #2: Peer Pressure
Any teen is going to experience some peer pressure, but some cope less well than others. A young person who is already struggling with mental health problems, for example, might be tempted to try one drink at a party. She might then think it was a great escape from her problems and be more likely to drink again. The behaviour may stick and become a very destructive habit, and sooner or later, her drinking is out of control. The same thing can happen with drugs and in perfectly happy teens. If your teen has engaged more with electronic abuse, it could have stemmed from them trying a game all their friends are playing and becoming hooked on it. Teens don’t like to be left out of the latest trend that’s getting everyone’s attention. Fitting in is incredibly important to many teens.
Cause #3: Mental Health Problems
At Venture Academy, we build troubled teen programs around your teen’s mental health because mental health problems are the leading cause of destructive behaviours such as drug abuse, excessive internet use, and alcohol abuse. Your teen may suffer from depression, anxiety, an eating disorder, or other condition. Sometimes, more than one condition at a time occurs. For a teen who is already struggling with the expected level of social pressure and academics in a young person’s life, this can be too much. Parenting is challenging enough as it is without worrying about mental health problems. There is help out there, however. For instance, teen treatment programs and therapy can help your teen recover.
Help for Your Troubled Teen at Venture Academy
At Venture Academy, we offer a variety of troubled teen programs. Our team members are friendly, approachable, and highly-qualified in all types of teen treatment in Canada. We offer several treatment programs, including:
- 30-day assessment and intervention
- Behavioural treatment
- Drug and alcohol treatment
- School programs and education
- Electronic addiction treatment
A teen treatment program is the best way to get your child on the road to recovery. We provide all the academics your teen will need to stay on track with their education while they heal, and offer comprehensive therapy and support packages. Your teen will engage in activities and learn new life skills. In other words, they will have the opportunity to make new friends and socialize with people who understand them.
It can be devastating seeing your teen struggle, and we know how challenging it can be to find the right treatment program. If you want to talk to someone about your troubled teen, call Venture Academy at 866.762.2211.