How Can You Prepare Your Teen to Attend Day Treatment for Behavior

Are you at your wits end with your teenager’s bad behavior? Fortunately, there are many programs and support for parents to help them deal with children who have behavioral issues. One of the ways you can help your child is by sending them for day treatment. 

However, teens may protest and refuse to go for treatment because they see it as a punishment. In this case, you’ll need tips to convince your child that this is the best solution to help them especially if they have mental health issues. 

With that being said, we explain what day treatment is and what its benefits are. We’ve also provided valuable tips to convince your teen to attend day treatments and what to do if they refuse to go. 

What is Day Treatment for Behavior? 

Day treatment is a program that is developed for children who have moderate to severe behavioral problems. This type of treatment is for children aged between 7 and 18 and can provide up to 8 hours of programming per day. 

This sort of therapy gives children a higher level of care compared to outpatient clinics. They provide a wide range of treatments such as family therapy as well as group sessions. It can also include psychotherapy to help teens who have anxiety disorders, phobias, and mood disorders. 

Day treatment is slightly different from residential treatment centers that provide inpatient care. The difference is that teenagers can return home after their treatment. It can be beneficial for parents who prefer to have their children stay at home. 

When is it Time to Attend Day Treatment for Behavior? 

Your teenager can benefit from day treatment if they’re showing signs of extreme aggression, self-harm, and problems with suicidal ideation. If your child has mental health disorders such as anorexia, depression, or obsessive-compulsive disorder they can get the treatment they need at a day treatment center. 

Another reason parents send their teens for day treatment is if they’re struggling academically or have learning disabilities. 

How to Prepare Your Teen for Day Treatment

Some teenagers don’t like change and they may feel that going to day treatment will disrupt their freedom and their social life. It will be natural for your teen to resist going for therapy, and that’s why it’s crucial you prepare your teen the right way. Here’s how you can convince your teen to get the help they need. 

Try to Understand Why Your Teen is Resisting

Put yourself in your teenager’s shoes and try to understand why they may resist going for therapy at a day treatment center. Perhaps they’re afraid of being around strangers or becoming vulnerable. 

Speak to your child about how they truly feel about the situation so you can understand their frustrations and fears. Reassure them that you will be with them every step of the way. 

Explain Why It’s The Best Option for Them 

Your teenager may not fully understand why they have to go for treatment. You must have an open discussion with them and give them all the reasons why they can benefit from the program. 

Sit with your teen while you go through the day treatment center’s website so they can better understand what the facility offers and what they can experience. This will give your child peace of mind they’re getting the best treatment for their needs. 

Let Your Teen Know It’s Not to Punish Them 

Adolescents who have severe mental health issues can get it into their heads that they’re being punished or their parents are abandoning them. You must reassure your child that sending them for therapy is not punishment but a means to help them by giving them the best mental health treatments. 

Explain that a mental health professional has the knowledge to help them through their problems in a way that you can’t. 

Lead By Example: Attend Day Treatment for Behavior

You can attend individual counseling or family therapy with your teenager to show them they don’t have to be afraid. By attending individual or family therapy sessions you’re leading by example and also showing your teen that you’re also willing to get help for your problems. 

What to Do If Your Teen Refuses Treatment 

In some cases, you may have to deal with a teenager who is refusing to attend day treatment even after you’ve explained the benefits to them. Ask your counselor or doctor to intervene as they may have better solutions to convince your child to go for therapy. 

Consider visiting the day treatment center so your child can observe what happens during the therapy sessions. This can give your teen a better understanding of the program and may entice them to want to go for therapy. 

Final Thoughts – Day Treatment Programs For Your Teen

Trying to understand your teenager’s mental health challenges can be daunting but with the right support, your child can thrive. The day treatment program at HelpYourTeenNow provides a structured environment where your teen can get specialized care while maintaining a routine. When you do decide to have your teen attend day treatment for behavior, contact our team for help.

At HelpYourTeenNow, we are dedicated to guiding you through the process of finding the best program tailored to your teen’s unique needs. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength and commitment to your teen’s well-being. Together, we can help your teen overcome obstacles and build a brighter future. Reach out to us today, and we’ll find the best solutions to help your troubled teen.