Summer break is a time teens often look forward to. It’s a season filled with late nights, social gatherings, less structure, and more freedom. While this can be a healthy and enjoyable break from the pressures of school, it can also open the door to risky behaviors, including experimentation with drugs and alcohol. At Aspire Counseling Services we understand how crucial it is for parents and caregivers to recognize the early signs of substance use before it escalates into dependency or addiction.
Know that there are resources there to help you and your teen through addiction treatment and mental health services in 7 convenient locations throughout Central California.
Why Summer Is a High-Risk Season for Teens
The summer months can be challenging for teens, particularly those struggling with underlying mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, or trauma. With less adult supervision, more unscheduled time, and increased access to peer influence, teens may begin experimenting with substances out of boredom, peer pressure, or emotional distress.
Substance abuse in teens rarely starts with obvious signs. It often begins subtly through small behavioral changes, physical symptoms, or emotional shifts that are easy to dismiss as “typical teenage mood swings.” However, being able to distinguish between normal teenage development and potential warning signs can help families intervene early.
Early Signs to Watch For
- Sudden Changes in Behavior or Mood Teens who begin using substances may become irritable, withdrawn, or overly secretive. You might notice outbursts of anger, frequent mood swings, or increased defiance.
- Declining Academic Performance A drop in grades, skipped assignments, or a sudden lack of interest in school can often be an early sign of deeper issues, including drug or alcohol use.
- Changes in Friend Groups If your teen is suddenly spending time with new friends and is reluctant to talk about them, this may be a cause for concern. Especially if they begin avoiding longtime friends and hobbies.
- Physical Signs Look out for bloodshot eyes, frequent nosebleeds, sudden weight changes, slurred speech, or unsteady movements. These may indicate alcohol or drug use.
- Hygiene and Appearance Teens may stop caring about their appearance or hygiene. You might notice unusual smells on clothing, evidence of smoke, or a disheveled look.
- Sleep and Appetite Shifts Substance use can disrupt a teen’s normal sleep and eating habits. Oversleeping, insomnia, or late-night activity may all be signs of concern.
- Missing Money or Valuables Teens using drugs or alcohol may begin stealing money or valuable items to fund their habit.
- Lying or Avoiding Eye Contact Teens using drugs or alcohol may begin stealing money or valuable items to fund their habit.
When to Seek Help
If you begin noticing a combination of these signs, early intervention is critical. Aspire Counseling Services offers a range of specialized programs, including teen partial hospitalization programs (PHP) in Bakersfield CA, addiction programs in Victorville CA, and teen mental health services in Fresno CA, designed to support both teens and their families.
Our rehab centers in Bakersfield CA and across California provide compassionate, evidence-based care that addresses not just the addiction, but the root causes of substance use – whether they be trauma, depression, anxiety, or family dynamics.
How Aspire Counseling Services Can Help
Our team of licensed therapists and addiction specialists provides both mental health treatment and substance abuse counseling under one roof. If you’re searching for behavioral health in Bakersfield CA, teen rehab centers in Simi Valley CA, or alcohol rehab centers in Fresno CA, Aspire Counseling Services offers individualized care that empowers young people to reclaim control of their lives.
With intensive outpatient programs, family counseling in Bakersfield CA, and teen addiction treatment in San Luis Obispo CA, we offer flexible wrap-around services that fit into your family’s lifestyle.
What Parents Can Do Now
It’s never too early to start an open and honest conversation with your teen. Don’t wait for visible signs of trouble, instead be proactive and create a safe space now where they feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and experiences. Opening the lines of communication helps build trust and gives your teen the confidence to come to you when they need help.
Establishing clear boundaries is also essential, especially during the unstructured months of summer. Setting curfews, regular check-ins, and clear expectations helps create a sense of stability and accountability. Just as important is your presence. Even when teens act like they want independence, they still need engaged and caring adults in their lives. Stay connected by knowing who their friends are, where they’re going, and what they’re doing.
Finally, remember you don’t have to navigate this journey alone. Aspire Counseling Services offers a range of support, including access to experienced therapists in Bakersfield, mental health services in Victorville, and addiction treatment options in Santa Clarita. Reaching out for help is a sign of strength and there are resources available to support your family every step of the way.
Take the First Step Today
If you’re noticing signs of substance use in your teen, trust your instincts. Aspire Counseling Services is here to help. Reach out today to learn more about our outpatient programs in Bakersfield CA, rehabilitation centers in Fresno CA, or teen mental health services in Simi Valley CA.
Together, we can help your teen build a future free from addiction and filled with possibility.
Visit us at www.aspirecounselingservice.com to connect with the support your family deserves.