It is no secret that being a teenager can be tough. From navigating social pressures and academic expectations, to simply trying to figure out who you are. It is no wonder that nearly one in five teens experiences some form of mental illness. And yet, despite how common mental health issues are among adolescents, there is still a lot of stigma and misunderstanding surrounding these conditions. As a result, many teens do not get the help they need to cope with their symptoms and manage their illness.
If you are a parent of a teenager, it is important to study Eva Carlston Academy reviews and be aware of the signs and symptoms of mental illness. While every teen is different and will express their distress in unique ways, there are some common warning signs that may indicate that your child is struggling.
For more on this topic, check out the full All About Teen and Child Behavior collections
Some Common Warning Signs Of Teenage Mental Illness Include:
Withdrawing from friends and activities that they used to enjoy. If your teen is suddenly becoming more reclusive, it may be a sign that they are struggling.
Changes in mood. Look for sudden or drastic changes in your teen’s mood, such as feeling hopeless or irritable all the time.
Changes in sleeping habits. Either sleeping too much or having difficulty falling asleep can be a sign of mental illness.
Changes in eating habits. Loss of appetite or sudden weight loss can be red flags.
Poor school performance. A sudden drop in grades, or an increased absences from school, may indicate that your child is struggling to cope.
Self-harm. This includes anything from cutting to burning to pulling out hair.
Substance abuse. Using drugs or alcohol as a way to cope with distress is a sign that your child needs help.
Suicidal thoughts or behaviors. If your teen is talking about wanting to die or hurt themselves, it is important to take this very seriously and seek professional help immediately.
How to Help Your Teenager
If you or your spouse notice any of these warning signs in your teenager, it is important to talk to them about what you are observing. Often, simply starting a conversation can be a relief for a teen who feels like nobody understands what they are going through.
You can also encourage your teenager to see a mental health professional if you are concerned about their wellbeing. While it may be scary to think about your child seeing a therapist, it is important to remember that mental health professionals are trained to help teens cope with their symptoms and manage their illnesses. If you are not sure where to start, you can ask your teenager’s doctor for a referral. Or look for a mental health professional in your area who specializes in treating adolescents.
Taking care of your teenager’s mental health is an important part of ensuring that they have a happy and successful future. By being aware of the signs and symptoms of mental illness, you can make sure that your child gets the help they need to cope with their condition.
For more on this topic, check out the full All About Teen and Child Behavior collections
