It can be difficult to tell if your teen is struggling with mental health issues. They may not openly discuss their feelings or may try to mask their symptoms. However, there are some warning signs that you can look for that may indicate that your teen is in need of help. For instance, if you notice that your teen is withdrawing from friends and activities that they used to enjoy, this may be a sign that something is wrong.

If your teen seems to be feeling hopeless or helpless, or if they are exhibiting signs of self-harm, these are also red flags that warrant further investigation. It’s best to familiarize yourself with the various mental health disorders that might impact your teen so you can get them the help they need as soon as possible.

Common Mental Health Concerns and Symptoms In Teens

There are a number of mental health disorders that commonly affect teens. As teens are growing and experiencing different things for the first time, it’s not unusual for them to feel overwhelmed or stressed. However, when these feelings persist and start to interfere with their daily lives, it may be indicative of a larger problem such as mental illness. Below are some of the most common mental health conditions that might impact your teen’s life. Look for these symptoms so you can get them the help they need:

Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety disorders are some of the most common mental health disorders that can affect teens, with an estimated 31.9% of teens diagnosed with an anxiety disorder. If your teen is constantly worrying or seems overly stressed, they may be struggling with an anxiety disorder. Teens with anxiety disorders often avoid activities and situations that make them feel anxious or stressed. This can start to interfere with their daily lives and make it difficult for them to function normally.

It’s important to note that anxiety encompasses many different mental disorders.

Some examples of anxiety mental illnesses and their symptoms include:

• PTSD: PTSD, or post-traumatic stress disorder, can develop after your teen experiences or witnesses a traumatic event. This can include things like a natural disaster, violence, or the death of a loved one. Symptoms of PTSD can include flashbacks, nightmares, anxiety, and avoidance behaviors.
• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): OCD is an anxiety disorder that’s characterized by intrusive, unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions). People with OCD often feel the need to perform certain rituals or routines in order to ease their anxiety. This can start to interfere with their daily lives and make it difficult for them to function normally.
• Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): GAD is characterized by chronic, excessive worry that is not focused on any one particular thing. People with GAD often feel anxious about a variety of things, such as their health, work, or school.
• Panic Disorder: Panic disorder is characterized by recurring, unexpected panic attacks. A panic attack is a period of intense fear or discomfort that can include physical symptoms like a racing heart, sweating, and difficulty breathing. People with panic disorder often live in fear of having another panic attack, which can make it difficult to do activities they once loved.
• Social Anxiety Disorder: Social anxiety disorder, also known as social phobia, is a fear of social situations where a person might feel embarrassed, judged, or scrutinized. This can include things like public speaking, attending parties, or even using public restrooms. People with social anxiety often avoid these situations, which make it difficult for teens to function in school or social gatherings.

If you notice any of these anxiety disorders and their symptoms affecting your teen, it’s important to seek professional help. Anxiety disorders can be treated with therapy, medication, or a combination of both.

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a mental illness that is characterized by problems with focus, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. ADHD can be a very difficult condition to live with and can make it difficult for your teen to succeed in school. If your teen is struggling with ADHD, there are many resources and treatments available to help them such as medication, therapy, and support groups.

Symptoms of ADHD can include:

• Problems with focus
• Poor school performance
• Easily distracted
• Forgetfulness
• Disorganization
• Restlessness
• Difficulty sitting still
• Acting without thinking
• Interrupting others
• Taking risks

Depression

Depression is one of the most common mental health disorders that can affect teenagers. Recent studies also show that depression is increasing in teenagers, showing how important it is for parents or loved ones to be aware of this debilitating condition.

Depression is more than just feeling sad or down, it’s a persistent feeling of hopelessness and despair that can interfere with your teen’s daily life.

Symptoms of depression can include:

• Persistent sadness or empty mood
• Loss of interest in activities that were once enjoyed
• Fatigue or decreased energy
• Self harm
• Sleep problems, such as insomnia or sleeping too much
• Changes in appetite or weight
• Anxiety or agitation
• Irritability or restlessness
• Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
• Concentration problems or difficulty making decisions
• Thoughts of death or suicide

If you notice any of these symptoms in your teen, it’s important to seek mental health treatment such as counseling or family therapy as soon as possible. Depression is a serious condition that can be life-threatening.

Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is another mental health disorder that can affect teenagers. Bipolar disorder is characterized by extreme mood swings, from periods of high energy and happiness (mania) to low periods of sadness and despair (depression).

Bipolar disorder can be a very difficult condition to deal with, as it can be hard to manage the highs and lows. However, with treatment, many people with bipolar disorder are able to lead happy and productive lives. A mental health professional can help your teen manage their symptoms and get the treatment they need.

Symptoms of bipolar disorder can include:

Mania:

• Elevated mood or irritability
• Decreased need for sleep
• Increased energy or activity levels
• Racing thoughts or talking quickly
• Impulsivity or risky behavior

Depression:

• Persistent sadness or empty mood
• Loss of interest in activities that were once enjoyed
• Fatigue or decreased energy
• Sleep problems, such as insomnia or sleeping too much
• Changes in appetite or weight
• Anxiety or agitation
• Irritability or restlessness
• Feelings of worthlessness or guilt

Substance Use Disorder

At least 50% of teens have misused a drug at least once, making substance use disorders (SUDs) very common in this age group.

There are many different types of SUDs, but they all involve using a substance in a way that is harmful to oneself or others. Some common substances that teens abuse include alcohol, tobacco, marijuana, cocaine, and prescription drugs.

Symptoms of a SUD can include:

• Changes in mood or behavior
• Withdrawal from friends and family
• Problems at school or work
• Money problems
• Legal problems

If you notice any of these symptoms in your teen, it’s important to seek help from a professional. SUDs are treatable, but they often require professional help. Your teen might also benefit from sober living homes, which can provide a safe and structured environment while they recover.

How to Talk to Teens About Mental Health

If you think your teen may be struggling with mental health, the first step is to talk to them about it. It’s important to create an open and safe space for your teen to share their thoughts and feelings. If they’re not ready to talk, that’s OK. Just let them know that you’re there for them when they’re ready.

Here are some tips for talking to your teen about mental health.

Start the Conversation

You can start the conversation by asking how they’re doing or if there’s anything on their mind. If they don’t want to talk, that’s OK. Just let them know that you’re there for them when they’re ready.

Listen

Once your teen starts talking, really listen to what they’re saying. Don’t judge or try to fix their problems. Just let them know that you’re there for them and that you understand how they’re feeling.

Offer Support

Let your teen know that you’re there for them and that you’ll help them get the help they need. For instance, if your teen is struggling with substance abuse issues, you can offer to help them find a treatment program or sober living home.

Encourage Seeking Professional Help

If your teen is struggling with a mental health disorder, encourage them to seek professional help. Mental health disorders are treatable, but they often require professional help. A mental health professional can help your teen manage their symptoms and get the treatment they need.

Find a Mental Health Professional

If your teen is struggling with mental health, you can help them find a mental health professional. You can start by asking your doctor for a referral or searching online for mental health providers in your area.

These tips can help you understand your teen better, as well as give you the answers you seek if you believe they are going through a tough time. If you are still unsure, consider talking to their school counselor or another trusted adult about your concerns.

If you think your teen is in danger of harming themselves or others, call 911 or take them to the nearest emergency room. Mental health emergencies are serious and require immediate medical attention.

Get Help For Your Teen’s Mental Health Condition Today

Mental health disorders are common in teens, but they’re also treatable. If you think your teen is struggling with mental health, get help for them as soon as possible. There are many resources available to you and your family, including mental health professionals and counseling, which can help your teen get the treatment they need.