Mental Health for Teens: Top Signs Your Teen Needs Help
Mental Health for Teens: Top Signs Your Teen Needs Help
Mental health for teens is a topic that needs to be dealt with sensitivity and care. Teenagers, nowadays, are under a lot of stress and pressure. Whether it from their friends who want them to be “cool” or from parents and educators who want them to be “mature and responsible”, the demands on a young mind are many and can lead to mental health issues, like anxiety, eating disorders, depression and others.
Here are the top signs your teen may need mental health help:
Physical Symptoms of a Mental Health Condition
Most mental health conditions manifest in both psychological and physiological symptoms. If you notice your teenager frequently complaining of headaches, bodily aches and pains, or stomachaches that can’t really be explained away by tests, it can be a sign of depression or another mental illness.
Other physical symptoms could include a decrease in energy levels and a lack of interest in personal grooming, something which most teens generally lay a lot of emphasis on.
Moodiness and Behavioral Changes
Teenagers with mental health concerns may also, exhibit symptoms like mood swings, withdrawing from social interactions, losing interest in activities that usually engaged them or have difficulty concentrating.
Please note that sometimes, normal teen behavior also displays this as a natural part of teenage “angst”. It is only when it goes on for too long or seems too severe to you, that you should be concerned.
Violent, Negative or Destructive Behavior
Teens with mental health concerns may display aggressive, self-destructive or violent behavior or have suicidal thoughts and may voice them. They may be exceedingly negative towards others and may express a lack of confidence in their own selves.
Reports from School or Community About Changes in Behavior
If you start getting reports from school or community members about your teenager failing or missing classes, not showing up, misbehaving or acting “odd” on a regular basis, it can be a sign that something is amiss. Again, this can be part of normal teenage rebellion but if it goes on for too long or is too serious, it’s time to take action.
The teen years can be tumultuous, to say the least. Vigilant, involved parents and educators can identify signs of stress, anxiety and depression. Learn more about different types of mental health problems by trying out some mental health disorders symptoms quiz or any other mental health assessment.
Disclaimer: This article is strictly for informational purposes and not intended for medical advice. Consult with a professional at a mental health facility for medical advice and any possible need of mental health services.