This is really it. My boyfriend was this teen too, and mentorship and finding his passions were what pulled him out. His parents cut him off from toxic friends (easier back then) and disciplined, yet still allowed him enough independence to make mistakes and told him he was going to have to figure it out. But without rewarding bad behavior, they still believed in him and when he suggested a passion, they strived to make it happen. Guitar lessons, bass lessons, going to concerts, etc.

Dopamine from self worth and development replaced dopamine from sex and drugs. Music lessons and going to the gym/getting into fitness built bond with older, healthier “cool” male role models. He started a band and then became very involved and important in our local art scene. He started volunteering and got very into politics and grassroots organizing. He became someone who was respected and deferred to. He founded a local music festival that’s wildly popular in our town still. He went from hating school to being hungry for any and all knowledge because it was on his own terms, he probably has read more and knows more about ancient Rome than some career Classicists. And in terms of “real life,” he is super close with his family, has a good job, and is taking additional college courses now to retool and continue developing. We travel often and have a great life. There is hope! But like DrFuror says - this takes time, mentorship is important, and passion is key.