A new study was published in February 2007 that showed conclusively that wilderness therapy is effective in treating teens with substance abuse issues. Wilderness therapy programs became more well-known last year when they were profiled in a reality show called Brat Camp. The study, conducted by Keith C. Russell, Ph.D., of the University of Minnesota, showed very positive results after a child attended an outdoor wilderness therapy program:

Findings showed that the majority of participating teens with serious or significant substance use issues who previously were rated as "passive" about or "reluctant" to address problem behaviors became "actively interested" in working on or overcoming the issues triggering their substance use after attending an outdoor behavioral healthcare program. Other findings included significant reductions in symptoms of pre-existing depression, anxiety and stress after attending a program.

If you are interested in learning more about where the phrase brat camp originated, visit bratcamps.com.

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