Who could be in the wilderness camp?

Not all kids are qualified to be in wilderness camps, whether they intend to be there for recreation or rehabilitation. However, troubled teenagers who qualify for such programs have behavioral, clinical or learning issues. In turn, these factors are contributing to their socially unacceptable behavior. Most of wilderness camps take in kids from 13-18 with:

 * substance abuse
 * depression
 * drug/alcohol experimentation or abuse
 * poor relationships with family and friends
 * problem with anger management
 * difficulty in following or recognizing authority
 * ADD/ADHD
 * manipulative behavior 
 * short of coping skills
 * oppositional defiant disorder or ODD
 * low motivation
 * no impulse control
 * academic or learning difficulties
 * conduct disorder

Most wilderness programs require the participation of family members. The troubled teenager can easily cope up if there is a strong support system, especially coming from his or her family. Traditionally, the programs allow a three-day family workshop. The process often establishes a safe environment for the family to reconcile and reunite emotionally.

Remember that many cases of troubled teens are largely founded on family issues. Resolving unsung expressions and  misunderstandings can speed up the process. Communication usually dwindles that’s why kids are getting into trouble. In some occasions, particularly with teenagers, they use bad behavior as a way to communicate their opinions or even their needs. In short, they want their parents, or everybody else in the family, to pay more attention to them.

Hence, the workshop intends to create or renew the bond between parents and the kids as well as everybody else in the family.

Wilderness camp provides an environment that is free from negative external factors. It replaces all the negativity with positive reinforcement with the help of mother nature. The natural atmosphere  offers a structured yet rustic lifestyle with healthy relationships among other participants or campers.

The challenging activities in the camp often reflect both family and social scenarios with strong boundaries and structures. In turn, the whole process, whether it be rehabilitation or recreation, gives teenagers a chance to realize their actions.  By doing so, they become motivated to pursue life after their stay in the camp.

In short, teenagers are getting a natural therapy from nature. Places as well as other living things around them allow a certain conscious reflection, which teen kids usually miss in reality or in their usual lifestyle.

One of the benefits wilderness programs is understanding and embracing spirituality. If your family lacks this essential life’s quality, it is a high time to be engaged. It will really help your troubled teenager. Take note that spiritual activities in wilderness camps require the family’s involvement, not just the parents but all family members. The process often result to spiritual development as an individual, and spiritual unity as a family.

The only downside is some teenagers do not like the idea of religion or even being spiritual. Depending on your child’s case or even your (religious) preferences, there will be alternative activities to suffice that part of the entire therapeutic flow. As long as the family are willing to be involved during the process, the camp staffs are willing to create an appropriate activity leading to the same results.

Not every troubled teenager can be admitted in a wilderness program. Generally, there are several factors to be considered. Most importantly, is your kid up for the challenges? Or, are you sending your kid for a rehabilitation or a recreation program?

If your kid needs to cope up with his or her behavioral issues, then you’re up for a rehabilitation program. Therapy will be provided to remove all those acquired negative influences. However, aside from the cost, you should be able to prepare you teen that there will be less contact for a long period. Also, the activities are physically challenging.

Most wilderness programs have adventure hikes or expeditions that focus on personal development. The good thing about this activity is that your child can explore and embrace the importance of nature, while improving as a self.

Before you send your troubled teenage kid to a wilderness camp or program, make sure that you know what is wrong with your child. You can get your own therapist, or ask the camp if their therapist can do the initial evaluation of your kid’s behavior. Such a professional will conduct a series of test.  After that, you can ask around or check online which wilderness program is appropriate. If not, you just follow what the therapist suggests.

Generally, most camps have their own therapists. In fact, they will assign a particular therapist for every teenager’s case. Your kid will be provided with both group and individual therapy. The therapist will then give you weekly report on your teenager’s progress. Also, you will be given a case summary and treatment recommendations.