Here is the second half

Sn eee eee ee Sa a ead Why do adolescents in recovery need a continuing care plan? What would you include in a recovering plan and why for an adolescent client? Adolescents can not stick to a recovery program by themselves, There are so many things involved in a recovery plan it would be too overwhelming to keep it all together. Time ina treatment center is only the beginning. A mistake I've seen people make is thinking they learned enough when they were in treatment that when they got out they would be fine, and it didn't take long til they started drinking or using again. A client might change, but everything else stays the same. Having a detailed plan keeps the client on track. Signing a contract makes the client feel obligated, and they won't want to let anyone down that cares about them. help them practice the skills they're learning. The continuing plan is 5 years, a long time. An adolescent client is going to be in the process of developing and would not be able to make such a thorough plan like that, They need the continuing guidance that the counselors are committed to providing. They need that help to work through problems that will arise, someone to encourage them and \\f were a counselor | would definitely maintain frequent contact with the adolescent client. Going out and doing fun things is just as important as meetings that focus on emotional support. Not enough emphasis is given to replacing drug-related activities. Clients need to keep themselves active, go to the movies, miniature golfing, swimming, whatever they like to do. Included in that is spirituality, and belonging to a force that is bigger than ourselves. | would include doing things that make the client feel connected to the world, one with nature, part of something bigger. That will create or develop an inner strength that will help their recovery, too.+--- wt f iff ; ? 7 5 is going to hurt them. Most adults are tired of bding controlled by substances and hope treatment can save them, they don't want to die and are ready to surrender. Adolescents on the other hand are combative and full of anger. They are forced into treatment they don't believe they need, and the last thing they think about Is dying or how drinking and using substances Adult clients are stable while adolescents are not socially or emotionally mature yet. Adolescents are impulsive and think they are invincible. They need to be taught how their behavior is often the reason why bad things happen in their lives. biggest difference between adolescents and adults is that the brain of a teenager is not fully developed. The development of the pre-frontal cortex starts around 11 yrs old and isn't fully mature until close to 25. This region of the brain is responsible for abstract thought, the ability to make good judgments, and controlling impulses. Their emotions are very intense, and they don't know how to make rational decisions yet. When situations change or are stressful, they aren't equipped to handle it. it. They haven't learned yet how past decisions affect the present or future. They need help in making the connection between their choices and the resulting consequences . 4 Previous Cee _ Next