As a teen, Alex S. found himself on an emotional rollercoaster that had no exit. Feelings of depression, anxiety, and then paranoia started to take over his life. He had constant thoughts that other kids in school were judging him or were out to get him.
“I started to develop very protective measures,” he said. “Anyone that did anything to remotely upset me, I lashed out. I would call them names, belittle them, and try to make them feel smaller. I wanted to get that first bite in before they could rip me down.”
As his symptoms escalated, his relationship with food became a battleground. He started to binge eat. Then, overcome with shame and guilt, he would purge.
Over time, Alex wasn’t getting proper nutrients, causing fatigue and dizziness. His anxiety grew, which led to difficulty sleeping. Each issue, he said, fed off the others. Eventually, he turned to substances to cope.
“I was in a very dark place, and I didn’t see a future for myself,” he said.
The Decision to Seek Treatment
Alex’s parents recognized the changes in his behavior and knew he needed professional help. They enrolled him in an outpatient program, but it soon became clear that Alex required more intensive care.
That’s when they found Newport Academy. One of Newport’s residential treatment centers for teen boys was just a two-hour drive from their home. Here, Alex would have round-the-clock care from a multidisciplinary team of medical doctors, expert clinicians, registered dieticians, residential care staff, and more. He would also be able to connect with peers going through similar issues—all in a welcoming, home-like setting.
Arriving at Newport
Alex knew he needed help, and that residential treatment was the next best step for him. But once he arrived, the nerves set in and he started questioning the decision. “Is this worth it?,” he asked himself.
He was relieved to find a welcoming staff who put him at ease right away. They could tell he was reserved and trying to isolate, so they were intentional about making him feel included.
While the first week was difficult, Alex slowly started to bond with the others in his treatment group. He also fell into the rhythm of the daily residential schedule. And he began to realize that treatment at Newport was different from anything he had experienced before.
The Newport Difference: Multidisciplinary Care
What set Newport apart for Alex was the multidisciplinary approach. Newport’s comprehensive treatment model includes individual therapy, group, and family therapy sessions, an accredited academic curriculum, and experiential therapies, such as art, music, and outdoor adventures.
Newport also treats primary mental health struggles together with co-occurring disorders, which Alex says was critical during his treatment.
“It really helped me see that there are many different aspects to my recovery that needed focus, that they all are equally important, and they should all be worked on and cherished.”
Alex could work on healthy coping skills and emotional processing in individual therapy, and then attend a group session specific to disordered eating, to address the issues he faced around food, nutrition, and body image.
“Newport comes at whatever you may be struggling with from so many different angles that one of them is bound to help,” he says.
Repairing Relationships with Family Therapy
Alex always had a good relationship with his parents, but it was strained by his behavior and struggles. Family therapy, a core component of Newport’s treatment model, provided a safe space for Alex and his parents to connect, learn, and grow together throughout treatment.
“I remember my parents would always say things like, ‘Why do you keep doing these things?’ As a teen, I didn’t have the vocabulary or the ability to help them understand why. Family therapy helped us understand each other’s perspectives.”
Newport utilizes evidence-based Attachment-Based Family Therapy to help teens and their parents work together to address and resolve conflicts, enhancing their ability to cope with challenges as a family after treatment.
“I want to give back. I had amazing staff at Newport that guided me through my experience, and I want to be able to do that for the next generation.
Alex S., Newport Alum
Putting the Pieces Together
Many teens in treatment experience what Newport staff refer to as a “shift happens” moment—a point where everything starts to click and they begin to move in a positive direction. For Alex, there wasn’t a specific moment, but rather a deeper realization of why he was struggling, and the opportunity to learn a range of coping strategies.
“I thought, ‘You have all these tools, let’s piece them together now.’ Let’s put what you’ve been talking about in therapy into practice. Let’s get this ball rolling.”
Life After Treatment
Today, Alex can reflect on life after treatment from a place of gratitude and fulfillment. He found much more than healing during his time at Newport; he found his calling—a career helping others who struggle with mental health. He is currently working as a detox technician as he pursues a nursing degree.
He’s proud to share his experience to help others see their own potential and what can happen through recovery.
“I want to give back,” he said. “I had amazing staff at Newport that guided me through my experience, and I want to be able to do that for the next generation.”
Why Newport?
Why would Alex recommend Newport to others? He says the treatment model is like nothing he’s ever experienced.
“You get staff that are there 24/7 that are very helpful, supportive, and personable. They are willing to adjust and reassess if something’s not working. Then, to be able to talk with your peers who are going through similar things as you, is just amazing. Everything works so well together and just sets you up for success.”
Alex has some advice for teens who are currently struggling with mental health issues. He wants young people to know that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. And he understands that it can feel lonely and scary, so it’s okay to take baby steps.
“Start small. Find a person, a teacher, a counselor, a family member or friend—anyone you trust—and start a dialogue.”
Teen Treatment at Newport
If your teen is struggling with depression, anxiety, eating disorders, or any other mental health condition, our caring, compassionate staff is ready to help. Contact us today for a no-cost assessment.