Long term use can lead to addiction. In 2002 over a quarter million
individuals entering a drug rehabilitation program reported marijuana as their
primary drug of abuse. There are a few treatment programs geared specifically
for marijuana users.

Rehab involves counseling and group therapy. The ultimate goal of teen drug
rehab programs is to allow the teenager to be abstinent from drugs. They help
the person become productive and overcome the health effects of the drug as well
as the withdrawal symptoms.

Teenagers are unique in that they are undergoing physical and mental changes
constantly. Many teenagers may also have legal issues and may have a compulsory
drug rehab program. Relationships with family, peers and the community are very
important. As with other rehab programs a thorough medical and psychiatric
evaluation is performed.

Periodic monitoring of progress is made and as some programs state the goal
of rehab right from the first day is planning for the return home. Some teen
rehab programs have the residents perform chores but it appears that this is not
favored or supported by research. Family involvement in the rehabilitation
process is crucial and programs have methods to ensure this occurs.

Sports, yoga, acupuncture, religion and spiritual programs are components of
these programs. Some programs have music therapy and even animal therapy.
Academic assistance through on site tutors as well as coordination with the
teenager’s school is a very important part of programs.

Often declining grades are a symptom of drug use and attention to this aspect
sometimes ensures that once discharged some students perform even better than
their peers. Parents often have mental health issues related to their teenager’s
drug habit and attention to this will help the teenager in the long term.