The benefits of physical exercise are not in doubt. Maintaining a regular exercise regime can help improve mood, strengthen one’s bones and muscles, and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and some cancers. Now, a group of researchers is suggesting that physical exercise may also be useful in the treatment or prevention of teenage substance abuse.
The researchers first identified that an imbalance between cognitive and emotional decision-making among teens cause them to engage in risky behavior like substance abuse. Physical exercise is believed to help bring these decision-making processes back into harmony and assisted or directed exercise may be even more effective in achieving this goal. While the study’s authors caution that more research must be done to determine which exercises may be most beneficial in addressing teen substance abuse, they unanimously recommend including a fitness regime as part of any substance addiction treatment program.
If you are concerned that your teen might be using or abusing drugs or alcohol, it is important to seek the advice of a certified addiction specialist as soon as possible. Substance addiction is a progressive disease and it will get worse if left untreated.
The Asana Recovery Center offers a supervised detoxification and residential treatment program in a supportive, relaxing, and inspiring environment. Call us at (949) 438-4504 to learn more about our facilities and find out whether our comprehensive drug and alcohol addiction treatment program is a good fit for you.
