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Helping Young Men Overcome Addiction and Launch Their Best Life
Young adulthood is a pivotal time of identity formation, career development, and establishing independence. When substance use derails this crucial developmental stage, our specialized approach helps young men rebuild their foundation and discover their authentic selves in recovery. Our program combines the serene environment of our 55-acre ranch with evidence-based therapeutic interventions specifically selected to engage and resonate with young men.
Our young adult program creates a brotherhood of recovery where clients connect with peers facing similar challenges. This intentional community setting helps combat the isolation often experienced by young men struggling with addiction and offers authentic connections that support long-term recovery. Group therapy sessions address topics particularly relevant to young men, including:
Beyond achieving sobriety, our young men’s program equips clients with essential life skills for independent, successful living. Through our Life Skills for Addiction curriculum and experiential learning opportunities, young men develop:
Our program recognizes that young men need both clear boundaries and opportunities to exercise independence. We provide a structured environment with appropriate levels of personal responsibility that increases as clients progress through treatment. This balanced approach prepares young men to maintain recovery while successfully navigating the freedoms and responsibilities of adult life.
Our comprehensive Family Program addresses the unique family dynamics that young adult men face during this transitional life stage. We help families:
The combination of our rustic ranch environment and our Austin outpatient facilities offers young men the perfect balance of retreat and real-world integration during their recovery journey.
The Last Resort offers young men the perfect balance of environments through our two Austin-area locations. Our secluded 55-acre ranch in the Texas hill country provides a peaceful setting for intensive residential treatment, while our modern south Austin outpatient facility allows for convenient continuing care as clients progress in their recovery journey.
Austin offers unique advantages for young adult men in recovery:
At The Last Resort, we recognize that young adult men respond to treatment differently than older adults. Our therapy approaches are thoughtfully applied to address the unique developmental needs, communication styles, and recovery challenges of men ages 18-30. Our comprehensive program incorporates therapeutic modalities specifically selected for their effectiveness with young adults.
Young men often connect more authentically with horses than with traditional talk therapy. Through guided interactions with these sensitive animals, our clients develop:
Action-oriented approaches resonate strongly with young men, allowing them to engage with recovery principles through meaningful activities rather than just conversation. These dynamic therapeutic experiences help clients:
Young adult men benefit significantly from structured approaches that address thought patterns and emotional regulation. These evidence-based approaches provide practical tools for managing triggers and cravings
Our specialized curriculum addresses the practical aspects of independent living that many young men have not fully developed due to active addiction:
Physical wellness is a cornerstone of recovery for young men, helping to:
We help young adult men and their families navigate the complex transition to adult relationships through:
As the prevalence of substance use among young adults continues to rise, it’s crucial to recognize the importance of available treatment options and drug rehabs for young men designed for their age group. Addressing the unique needs and challenges of young people struggling with addiction requires specialized care and support.
Fortunately, there are various treatment options specifically designed to cater to the developmental, emotional, and social aspects that affect young adults in their journey towards recovery
Recovery isn’t a single event but a journey that requires different levels of support along the way. The Last Resort offers young adult men a seamless progression through all stages of treatment, providing appropriate structure and support that evolves as they grow in their recovery. Our young adult treatment pathway includes:
We’re excited to share the positive experiences of our other community members, many of whom were where you are today – overwhelmed and uncertain. These are their stories. What will yours be?
The journey to recovery is deeply personal, yet hearing about others who have walked a similar path can provide hope and inspiration. Below are stories from young men who found healing and transformation through our program.
Young people are particularly vulnerable to addiction, often due to a combination of physical, psychological, and environmental factors. Some of the unique challenges they may face include:[1]
Young people are highly influenced by their peers and may turn to substance use as a way to fit in, appear more mature, or alleviate feelings of insecurity or inadequacy. This may lead to continued use and, ultimately, addiction.
Adolescence and young adulthood are marked by significant developmental changes. Substance use during this period can disrupt brain development, affecting areas responsible for impulse control, decision-making, and emotion regulation. This may increase vulnerability to addiction and exacerbate mental health issues.
Young people may engage in risky behaviors such as binge drinking, experimenting with different drugs, or engaging in unsafe sexual practices. These behaviors can increase the likelihood of developing an addiction or lead to other negative consequences.
Young people are susceptible to mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and trauma. They may turn to substance use as a coping mechanism, which can increase the risk of addiction. Additionally, substance use can worsen pre-existing mental health conditions.
Academic and career pressure can be significant stressors for young people. Some may struggle to keep up with expectations, leading to feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt. This can make them more susceptible to substance use as a way to escape their stress and worries.
Easy access to addictive substances, including prescription medications, can also increase the risk of addiction in young people. The rise of technology and social media may also expose young people to a wider range of addictive behaviors, such as gambling, gaming, and social media addiction.
Young people often have less experience and knowledge about substance use and addiction. They may underestimate the risks associated with substance use or be unaware of the early signs of addiction, which can make it harder for them to seek help or change their behavior.
A lack of parental involvement, poor role modeling, or a family history of addiction can also increase the risk of addiction in young people.
Many young people may experiment with different substances as they navigate their way through adolescence and young adulthood.[2] Some of the most commonly used substances among this demographic include:[3]
Alcohol is one of the most widely used substances by young people. It is often easily accessible and socially acceptable and can lead to risky behaviors and addiction.
As the legalization of marijuana increases in some areas, its use among young people has also risen. Marijuana can impact cognitive functioning, motivation, and mental health, particularly in adolescents.
Young people may misuse prescription drugs such as opioids, stimulants, or sedatives to get high, relieve stress, or enhance performance. This can lead to addiction and other health consequences.
Synthetic drugs like Spice or K2 (synthetic marijuana), bath salts, and MDMA are popular among young people, often due to their accessibility and affordability. However, their unpredictable nature can result in serious health consequences.
Cocaine use among young people may stem from curiosity, peer pressure, or the pursuit of increased energy and focus. However, it’s highly addictive and can have significant negative health consequences.
Methamphetamine is a highly addictive and potent stimulant that can have devastating effects on the body and mind. It’s often used for its perceived benefits, like increased energy, alertness, and concentration.
Although less common than other substances on this list, heroin is still a significant concern for young people – especially those who have already developed an addiction to prescription opioids.
It is important to educate young people about the risks associated with these substances and to provide resources and support for those struggling with substance use or addiction.
Substance use among young people can have long-lasting effects on their physical, psychological, and social development. This is particularly significant when considering that young people’s brains are still growing and developing until their mid-20s, especially in areas such as the prefrontal cortex, which plays a vital role in decision-making and rational thinking.[4]
According to the 2021 statistics (per the National Survey on Drug Use and Health), nearly 22 percent of people aged 12 and older (61.2 million people in all) in the US reported using illicit drugs in the past year.[5] Of these, marijuana use accounted for 85.4 percent of this number, with 52.5 million people having used it that year. Furthermore, nearly 40 percent of young adults between the ages of 18 and 25 reported using illicit drugs in the previous year.
Across the nation, 46.3 million people met the criteria for having a substance use disorder (SUD) in the past year, with alcohol use disorders affecting 29.5 million people and drug use disorders affecting 24 million. Notably, more than 9 in 10 people receiving SUD treatment stated that they first used substances before reaching young adulthood.[6] 9.2 million people over the age of 12 misused opioids, contributing to the ongoing opioid crisis and highlighting the urgent need for preventative measures and accessible treatment options.
Given the prevalence of illicit drug use among young people, as well as the alarmingly high rate of substance use disorders, it is crucial to implement and expand upon evidence-based prevention programs, promote early intervention strategies, and increase access to young adult addiction treatment services to foster a healthier and safer environment for our youth.
The path to healing may seem daunting, but you are not alone. With the help of a professional team and a supportive community, you can make your way to a brighter future, free of drugs and alcohol. Remember: recovery is possible.
Aftercare planning involves ongoing support through alumni programs, sober living arrangements, outpatient therapy, and relapse prevention strategies.
Typically, you’ll need comfortable clothing, personal hygiene items, insurance information, medications (if prescribed), and any necessary documentation
Many young adult inpatient rehab programs include recreational activities, exercise programs, outings, and therapeutic leisure activities to promote overall well-being.
Our young adult men’s program addresses the specific developmental challenges of men ages 18-30. We focus on age-appropriate peer connections, life skills development, and family dynamics unique to this transitional life stage. Our therapeutic approaches engage young men through active, experiential methods that resonate with their communication styles and learning preferences.
Recovery is our primary focus, but we understand the importance of education for young adults. Depending on the phase of treatment and individual circumstances, we work with clients to explore options for balancing recovery needs with educational goals. Our team can guide communication with educational institutions regarding medical leaves when necessary.
Austin offers an ideal environment for young adult recovery with its strong recovery community, abundant recreational opportunities, and vibrant culture. Our program utilizes both our secluded ranch setting for intensive treatment and our Austin outpatient center for continuing care, creating a smooth transition from treatment to independent living in a recovery-supportive community.
Treatment length varies based on individual needs and clinical recommendations. Each client receives a personalized treatment plan that may include various levels of care from detox through aftercare. Research shows that adequate time in treatment correlates with better outcomes, particularly for young adults who benefit from extended support during this critical developmental period.
Our continuum of care is designed to provide appropriate support at each stage of recovery. As young men progress through our different levels of care, they receive guidance on developing the skills needed for independent living while maintaining their recovery. Our treatment team works with each client to create a sustainable aftercare plan addressing their needs.
Many young men struggle with co-occurring issues such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, or trauma. Our integrated approach addresses both addiction and mental health through evidence-based therapies, including CBT, DBT, and trauma-informed care. Our clinical team specializes in addressing the complex interplay between substance use and mental health in the developing brains of young adults.
We recognize that traditional talk therapy alone may not effectively engage young men. Our program incorporates experiential therapies like equine-assisted therapy, fitness therapy, and psychodrama that create meaningful, memorable learning experiences. We also foster a peer community that provides connection and mutual accountability, essential to keeping young men invested in their recovery.
While respecting the independence of young adults, we recognize the importance of appropriate family involvement. Our family program helps parents and young adult children navigate this complex transitional relationship. We provide family therapy, education about addiction and recovery, and guidance on establishing healthy boundaries that support recovery while respecting growing independence.
[1] Drug Identification and Testing in the Juvenile Justice System. Consequences of youth substance abuse. Ojjdp.ojp.gov. https://ojjdp.ojp.gov/sites/g/files/xyckuh176/files/pubs/drugid/ration-03.html on July 2, 2024
[2] AACAP. (2019). Teens: Alcohol and Other Drugs. Aacap.org. https://www.aacap.org/aacap/families_and_youth/facts_for_families/fff-guide/Teens-Alcohol-And-Other-Drugs-003.aspx on July 2, 2024
[3] NIDA. (2022, December 15). Most Reported Substance Use among Adolescents Held Steady in 2022. National Institute on Drug Abuse; National Institute on Drug Abuse. https://nida.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/2022/12/most-reported-substance-use-among-adolescents-held-steady-in-2022 on July 2, 2024
[4] MedlinePlus. (2018). Drugs and Young People. Medlineplus.gov; National Library of Medicine. https://medlineplus.gov/drugsandyoungpeople.html on July 2, 2024
[5] SAMHSA. (2023, January 4). SAMHSA Announces National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) Results Detailing Mental Illness and Substance Use Levels in 2021. HHS.gov. https://www.hhs.gov/about/news/2023/01/04/samhsa-announces-national-survey-drug-use-health-results-detailing-mental-illness-substance-use-levels-2021.html on July 2, 2024
[6] Hadland, S. E., Yule, A. M., Levy, S. J., Hallett, E., Silverstein, M., & Bagley, S. M. (2021). Evidence-Based Treatment of Young Adults With Substance Use Disorders. Pediatrics, 147(Supplement 2), S204–S214. https://publications.aap.org/pediatrics/article/147/Supplement%202/S204/34555/Evidence-Based-Treatment-of-Young-Adults-With?autologincheck=redirected on July 2, 2024
