Valley Health Associates Opens FIRST
Youth Outpatient Treatment for Salinas

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SALINAS, California, November 2019: In the same month that Fentanyl overdoses had skyrocketed in Monterey County, Valley Health Associates announced the opening of a vital Youth Outpatient Treatment Program, the first of its kind in Salinas, CA. The unique program is designed for Youth (12-17 years of age) and transitional Youth (18-24 years of age).

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Widely acknowledged as an epidemic, Valley Health Associates aims to improve the outcomes for those suffering from Substance Use Disorder (SUD), especially Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) in our community. For youth, the negative effects associated with this chronic illness may include arrest or juvenile detention; serious injury; suspension/expulsion; getting fired or problems getting hired; losing friendships or connection with family, and at times even harsher consequences, including death.

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The adolescent brain, in particular, is highly prone to addiction. According to the American Addiction Centers, “abusing [opioids] or alcohol regularly before the brain is completely formed can increase the odds of becoming addicted to these substances.”

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The good news is that due to improvements in research- and evidence-based programs, especially in using Medication Assisted Treatments, recovery is possible and lives are being saved. However, such a program was not available to youth in Salinas until now. The new Youth Outpatient Treatment Program at Valley Health Associates anticipates improvements for our young clients in the following realms:

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• Family connectedness

• Healthier friendships

• School engagement

• Capacity to hold a job

• Goal setting & accomplishment

• Openness to talk

• Decrease in risky behaviors

• Excitement for life

 

With the aim of recovery, wellness, and full social function through healthy and productive lifestyle changes, Valley Health Associate’s Youth Outpatient Program is currently taking referrals. Please contact us at (831) 424-6655.

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