Teen Opioid Addiction Treatment Urgently Needed

A Growing National Crisis

The numbers are startling. In 2023 alone, nearly 560 teenagers died as a result of opioid overdose. That is nearly three times the number of deaths in 2018. In fact, these tragedies climbed 65% in those five years.

Sadly, drug overdoses are the leading cause of death for U.S. teenagers today. Rehab.com’s Drug Use Statistics Report dives further into drug use among teens and college students.

Manuel Cano, an Associate Professor of Social Work at Arizona State University argues that while we don’t know all the reasons for such an increase in drug fatalities among teens, there are potential causes that make sense.

One possible explanation may be the use of counterfeit pills laced with fentanyl, which are often sold to youth on social media.

Another explanation is limited access to youth addiction treatment and early intervention programs. There is also a lack of public awareness that teens can safely receive medication assisted treatment (MAT) when clinically appropriate.

Barriers to Recovery

While there are many adult treatment centers nationwide, few offer specialized programs for teens. Those who develop dependence on fentanyl or other opioids often face additional barriers, including stigma, shame, and a shortage of adolescent detox and residential programs.

Some families also struggle to find treatment covered by insurance or state funded options. This further delays care during critical early stages of addiction.

Expanding Access to Care

Experts emphasize that adolscent addiction is a medical condition, not a moral failing. Early intervention and age appropriate treatment, especially ones that combine counseling, familiy therapy, and medication assisted care, can dramatically improve outcomes.

At Rehab.com, we’re committed to connecting families with top rated rehab centers that specialize in teen opioid addiction treatment. These programs help teens safely detox, manage withdrawal, and begin recovery in a supportive environment designed for young people.