Mental health treatment for teens exists on a spectrum, with some options more intensive than others. If your child is struggling, it’s important that you know what’s available – and what might be the best fit for your teen. 

Here’s what to know about residential treatment for teens, including some clear signs your child may benefit from this intensive level of care. 

What is a Residential Treatment Facility?

A residential treatment facility is a mental health center that provides round-the-clock care for individuals facing one or more mental health conditions. Instead of your teen going to treatment and returning home at the end of the day, they will remain at the facility for a month or longer, receiving 24-hour supervision and professional care in a safe environment. 

This level of treatment may be recommended to address a wide range of mental health concerns, including (but not limited to):

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Substance use disorder
• Eating disorder(s)
• ADD/ADHD
• Personality and mood disorders
• Trauma and PTSD
• School refusal
• Self-harm and suicidal ideation

Signs Your Teen May Need Residential Treatment

Residential treatment is necessary when your teen’s symptoms are interfering with their ability to safely go about their daily life. This could mean they pose a danger to themselves or others or that their home and/or school life is not conducive to healing. Additional indicators may include:

• Persistent struggles with sobriety
• Limitations of parental support and the need for specialized care
• Co-occurring mental health and substance use issues
• Lack of success in outpatient programs
• Escalating dangerous behaviors
• Academic struggles
• Sudden behavioral changes
• Legal troubles
• Severe mood fluctuations
• Sudden secretiveness around behaviors

A professional counselor can help you decide if residential care is appropriate, as well as discuss other available options. 

Does Residential Treatment Work for Teens?

Yes, residential treatment absolutely works for teens, providing therapy and peer support in an environment specially designed for healing and recovery. 

There are many reasons residential treatment is so effective. For starters, 24/7 care allows for deeper probing into the root causes behind troubling symptoms. Many centers that cater to teens also offer specialized services for ongoing academic and social growth, meaning they can get the treatment they need without falling behind. 

Finally, residential care is a uniquely supportive environment for teens in crisis. Your child is provided with a safe space for personal growth and skill building, plus a targeted plan for maintaining recovery in the “real” world. 

5 Questions to Ask When Deciding on Residential Care

1. What is your main concern? Identify and rank troubling behaviors to determine whether a high level of care is necessary. 
2. What does your child think? Talk openly with your teen about your concerns, and take note of their own willingness to stay accountable and pursue change. 
3. What are my boundaries? Determine the point at which behaviors become unacceptable and require a stricter intervention. 
4. What is my own role? Reflect on how life at home may be impacting your child, particularly any enabling behaviors you may be engaging in. 
5. Are all adults on the same page? Make sure to align with co-parents or other guardians on any major decisions regarding your teen’s health. 

Residential treatment can have an immensely positive impact on your teen now and in the years to come. Please contact us for more information and to learn about teen residential treatment at the Ridge RTC.