Helping Teens With Addiction in Military Families
January 23, 2025
Residential Inpatient Treatments for Teenagers
Teens growing up in military families face unique challenges ranging from frequent relocations to the emotional strain of having a parent or loved one on active deployment. Military families often endure pressures that civilians may not imagine, such as long-term and long-distance separations.
During emotional or turbulent teen years, military kids may feel isolated or burdened by responsibilities beyond their years, according to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). For some, these emotions can lead to experimentation with drugs or alcohol as a way to cope.
Untreated, substance use disorders (SUD) can evolve into further addiction and unhealthy habits, creating more stress within the family.
Military teens and substance use disorders
Specialized programs are available for military teens and their families. Substance use can stem from a mix of environmental and emotional factors for teenagers. Another source of anxiety may be due to a military parent who also suffers from mental health problems.
Patriot Support Programs are a network of treatment centers, skilled support staff and medical providers who are all motivated to meet the needs of active-duty service members, guard, reservists, veterans and families.
Designated Patriot Support Programs have behavioral health facilities to help patients cope with the emotional and psychological effects of military service, deployment and reintegration back at home.
Programs and services for PTSD, depression and substance use
Treating active military members and veterans with inpatient mental healthcare services can help address some of the root causes of mental illness in the armed forces. SUD therapy may help military families with:
- Combat stress. Service members may return home with post-traumatic stress which affects parenting and family dynamics. Therapy may help patients manage their symptoms and create a stable home environment.
- Anxiety. Patients may experience depression or psychological trauma due to military-related challenges. Addressing issues through counseling and medication may significantly improve family well-being, according to the NIMH.
- Frequent moves. Moving cities, states and even countries can disrupt a teens’ social networks and sense of stability. Programs at residential facilities like Willow Springs Center in Reno may include social skills training to help teens build resilience and adapt to new environments.
Residential treatments at Willow Springs Center in Reno, Nevada
The U.S. military recognizes the importance of addressing psychiatric challenges. It offers comprehensive programs designed to support active duty personnel, veterans, National Guard members, reservists and their families.
Both parents and teens can benefit from military-focused psychological care. Support your child or student with mental health treatments that can help patients and families cope with debilitating conditions including PTSD and:
- Chemical dependency
- Chronic pain
- Complex trauma
- Crisis stabilization
- Eating disorders
- Medical detox
- Medication management
- Mood disorders
- Outpatient programming
- Partial hospitalization
Family-focused mental healthcare and addiction services
A network of Patriot Support Programs consists of treatment centers, support staff and medical providers who meet the needs of active-duty service members, reservists and veterans. Psychiatric care may include family therapy to help parents and teens navigate the complexities of military life.
Family counseling also provides a welcoming space to address underlying issues and communication barriers like substance use. Through Patriot Support Programs across the country, military families can have access to:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy. Helps teens identify and change negative thought patterns that contribute to substance use.
- Trauma-informed care. Addresses the impact of PTSD and other trauma-related conditions at home.
- Group therapy. Allows teens to connect with peers who share their struggles, fostering a sense of community and support.
Inpatient and outpatient addiction services for teens
Recovery is a journey that requires patience, understanding and support. For military families, it’s important to remember that you’re not alone. Resources and programs are available to help children and teens overcome SUD. By seeking help for your family through military-specific programs, you’re protecting a teen’s well-being and strengthening the family bond.
Contact Willow Springs Center
Call 775-858-3303 or complete the interest form for more information. At Willow Springs Center in Reno, Nevada, our structured programs help teens, ages 12-17, face mental health challenges, substance use and self-destructive behaviors.
