7 Signs of Mental Illness in Teenagers Parents Should Never Ignore

Teens are often moody and may occasionally be depressed and anxious. But in some instances, deeper problems are at play. Certain signs should alert you that your teen has mental health concerns that are too serious to pass off as the usual hormonal fluctuations.

With about one in seven teens suffering from mental illness, these signs are too serious to ignore, and the sooner you address them, the better. Unchecked mental health conditions can lead to risky behaviors and general turmoil that impact daily life for both the teen and the family. This article reviews signs of mental illness in teenager parents should look out for.

Common Signs and Symptoms Of Mental Health Issues in Teenagers

1. Persistent Depression: Your teen shows extreme signs of sadness and hopelessness that cause them to withdraw from activities and last more than two weeks.
2. Extreme Mood Swings: Their mood changes quickly from one extreme to another, ranging from sad to angry to anxious to euphoric, with little prompting.
3. Eating Disorders: Changes in eating habits could signify mental disorders, especially when the behavior aligns with anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, or chronic overeating.
4. Self-Harm/Suicidal Thoughts: Take immediate action if you notice signs of self-harm or if your teen talks about suicide.
5. Substance Use/Risky Behaviour: While teens often experiment with substances and risky behavior, it can become problematic if it’s ongoing and impacting daily life.
6. Difficulty Concentrating or Declining Academic Performance: Some teens may rebel and go through a period of ignoring their schoolwork. However, if grades are declining despite their best efforts, it could be a symptom of ADHD, autism, or an anxiety disorder.
7. Withdrawal From Friends, Family, and Activity: If Your teen stops engaging in activities they once enjoyed and is losing interest in their friend group, it could be a sign of mental health conditions.

Risk Factors and Causes

So, why do mental health issues occur in young adults? They could be due to the changes they undergo during this pivotal time of life. But in other instances, they may related to a deeper problem. Either way, their mental health needs shouldn’t be ignored.

Here are some factors that may lead to a need for adolescent psychiatry.

• Peer Pressure and Social Stress: Young people are often victims of peer pressure. They may experience social stress about their appearance, academic performance, and life aspirations. These issues are temporary for some, but can worsen mental health issues for others.
• Family History of Mental Disorders: A 2017 NIH study reveals 50% of children with parents with a mental health condition develop similar issues at some point in their lives. Contributing factors could be genetic or environmental.
• Exposure to Trauma or Adverse Childhoood Experiences: Mental conditions could arise as a result of trauma. Many children who were abused experience mental health issues.
• Substance Use and Abuse: Substance use is typically a circular issue. Many people, including teens and high school students, use drugs to deal with emotional issues. However, while substance can relieve symptoms in the short-term, they often disrupt emotional regulation, making them worse in the long run.
• Socioeconomic Challenges and Discrimination: Factors such as proverty and discrimination can also contribute to poor mental health.

When to Act: Urgency Guide

The following table provides warning signs to look out for, the level of urgency involved, and how to react.

Mental Health Conditions in Teens

While teens are prone to all mental health conditions, common ones include:

• Anxiety Disorders: While many teens deal with anxiety, it can be problematic when it’s disproportionate to the situation, is persistent and hard to control, and interferes with daily functioning.
• Depression: Also common in teens, depression can be concerning when it lasts more than two weeks and is accompanied by feelings of extreme sadness and hopelessness.
• Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): This condition is typically diagnosed during early childhood, but it can be especially impactful for teens who are working toward a college education, as it interferes with learning.
• Eating Disorders: The pressure to look good and be thin can develop into an eating disorder for some teens.
• Self-Harm and Suicidal Thoughts: While these are not mental health disorders in and of themselves, they are signs that emotional issues are getting out of hand, and immediate help is needed.

Importance of Early Detection and Intervention

Eearly detection is imperative in mental health treatment; it is up to parents to intervene when symptoms are getting out of hand. If you notice your teen is experiencing severe and persistent low mood or mood swings, reach out for help right away. Self-harm and suicidal thoughts establish a need for emergency services.

Fortunately, there are various resources available. For example, a crisis lifeline can recommend local resources to help keep your child out of danger. You may choose to eventually seek out a mental health facility for long-term care.

BNI Treatment Centers Promotes Well-Being and Resilience

Teen life isn’t easy. BNI Treatment Centers offers the support young adults need. We treat a wide range of behavioral, mental health, and substance abuse issues with a customized approach that promotes long-term recovery. Our academic support ensures kids won’t miss a beat during treatment.

Contact us to learn more about what we offer.

FAQs

What should I do if I notice these signs in my teenager?

If you notice signs of poor mental health in your teenager, it’s essential to take a non-confrontational, non-judgmental approach. Avoid language that mentions a mental health conditions or weakness. Contact a mental health professional for additional guidance.

How do I know if my teenager is just going through a phase or needs professional help?

Some parents may choose a ‘wait and see’ approach, which can be helpful as long as your child is not exhibiting behavior that might harm them or others. Consider how long symptoms have lasted, wheter they are getting better or worse, and wheter they are interfering with daily life.

How do I know if my teenager is self-harming?

Signs of self-harm include cuts and burns on the body, covering up in warm weather, and general secrecy about their body. Parents who see these signs should seek help immediately and show empathy rather than taking a ‘punishing’ approach.