So much change occurs during teenage years. These formative years are fraught with challenges and changes and in our current society, it is becoming harder and harder to ensure children have the appropriate support to launch!
Talking with a teen isn’t always easy and it can be heart-wrenching when they are suffering and insufferable when they are having a hard time managing their emotions. Getting proper family support is setting them on the course towards a secure sense of self-worth, emotional well-being and confidence are essentials of any parent-child relationship. It doesn’t have to be all on you, leaning on professionals to help them get the tools they need for success can be a healthy part of any plan.
What are some common adolescent mental health concerns?
An estimated 10-20% of adolescents globally experience mental health issues with many being under-diagnosed or under-treated. There are many factors that contribute to stress during the adolescent years: desire for greater autonomy, pressure to conform with peers, exploration of sexual identity, and increased access to and use of technology.
Common mental health disorders for adolescents include:
- Anxiety occurs in approximately 32 percent of 13- to 18-year-olds
- Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) occurs in approximately nine percent of 13- to 18-year-olds.
- Depression occurs in approximately 13 percent of 12- to 17-year-olds.
- Eating Disorders occur in almost three percent of 13- to 18-year-olds.
7 out of 10 high schoolers and 8 out of 10 middle schoolers experience sleep deprivation.
What are some warning signs that your adolescent may need help?
If you notice your adolescent behaviors have changed, or they are exhibiting any of the following warning signs, they may need to seek professional help.
-
- Often feel very angry or very worried
- Have difficulty sleeping or eating
- Lose interest in activities that they used to enjoy
- Isolate themselves and avoid social interactions
- Feel grief for a long time after a loss or death
- Use alcohol, tobacco, or other drugs
- Obsessively exercise, diet, and/or binge eating
- Hurt other people or destroy property
- Have low or no energy
- Feel like they can’t control their emotions
- Have thoughts of suicide
- Harm themselves (e.g., burning or cutting their skin)
- Think their mind is being controlled or is out of control
- Hear voices
What kind of counseling is available for adolescents?
– Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
– Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)