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Posts tagged as “two-thirds”

Benefits of Exercise to Help Treat Teen Substance Abuse

Substance use with teenagers and adolescents is higher than many people think. It is estimated that approximately two-thirds of teens try alcohol, and half of all high school students have tried marijuana. It is also known that with this, teens are more likely than young adults to become addicted to marijuana or prescription medication. This has led to a rise in teen recovery programs, and programs used to treat teen substance abuse.

For many recovery plans, exercise plays an important role. The reason for this is, that it works. Learn more about the benefits of exercise in teen addiction treatment here.

Improves Overall Health

A teen that is suffering from overall health issues is more likely to become depressed, anxious, or seek substances for pain relief. Overall health with teens includes not sleeping well, poor eating habits, and pain caused by headaches, injury, or hormonal fluctuations.

Exercise can combat all of these wellness issues. Exercise will help teens feel better, sleep better, eat more, and it can help them with some of their physical pain as well. Exercise will also help with weight management, which can have some nice trickle effects on self-esteem and overall confidence.

Why Do I Gain Weight When I Exercise: Explaining That Ever-Changing Number  On The Scale

Prevents Relapse

Exercise doesn’t just help with an overall wellness, it also prevents people from using substances. Some studies show that people that work out more will be less likely to consume drugs or drink regularly.

The reason these works go back again to self-confidence and self-esteem. People tend to feel better about themselves when they are working out. When teens feel better about themselves, they will be less likely to consume drugs or alcohol. They also might just be so involved with this part of their life that they don’t have time to party or be around negative influences.

For a teen that is trying to prepare for adulting, preventing relapse is important. A teen that is working out may feel more motivated to stay on the path of relapse prevention.

Promotes Positive Peer Support

Most teens that begin to get active with exercise and working out do so in social and group settings. They may go to the gym and workout, work out at the gym at school, or they may be part of athletic teams. In many cases, this will promote positive peer support that prevents kids from getting involved with negative activities and influences.

The stigma of addiction will also play a role. When a teen is involved in a team activity, that they could lose to addiction, they may be less inclined to try marijuana or alcohol. Programs like OK Teen Challenge are an example of the positive impacts of good peer support during the recovery process. Physical activity is a part of it all.

Enhances Mood

Workout out has a positive impact on an individual’s mood. It decreases anxiety, depression, and improves confidence. This is another important step in a teen’s recovery. When they feel better and are happier, they are less likely to relapse.

Seek Support for Teens

When the teen you love is struggling with addiction, know that you are not alone. Contact a center that can help them find ways such as exercise that can improve their overall quality of life.